At the age of 95, Iichi Marumo continues to skate competitively, holding the title of the world’s oldest male speedskater. After starting his career later in life, he now dominates his age category and aims for further achievements as he approaches 100.
Iichi Marumo: The 95-Year-Old Speedskater Aiming for Glory at 100
Iichi Marumo: The 95-Year-Old Speedskater Aiming for Glory at 100
Meet Iichi Marumo, the world's oldest speedskater, who began his competitive journey at 88 and is now breaking age barriers on ice.
Iichi Marumo, a remarkable 95-year-old speedskater from Japan, has captivated the sports world with his extraordinary journey in a sport often associated with youth. Marumo only took up competitive speed skating in his late 80s, a significant shift from a life filled with farming, poetry, and a unique past as a kamikaze volunteer during World War II.
Competing recently in January 2025 in Japan, Marumo raced in a newly established category for those aged 95 and over, where he stands alone as the only participant. His previous international debut happened seven years ago in Moscow when he, at the age of 88, finished behind much younger competitors yet proudly claimed a silver medal in the 85 and over category.
With a collection of over 20 gold medals, showcasing his triumphs at races in various countries, Marumo vibrantly expressed his joy in winning gold consistently, stating, “I win a gold medal every time I appear.” His competitive spirit proves inspiring, as he competes not just against time but also in a sport that requires immense physical endurance.
Accolades mounted at his home in Chino, Japan, where Guinness World Records recognizes him as the oldest male competitive speedskater in the world. Marumo's close rival hails from Norway and is five years younger, and curiosity surrounds his legacy as he optimistically aims to continue competing well into his centenarian years.
A lively presence, Iichi Marumo embodies perseverance and joy in the face of aging, proving that sports knowledge, passion, and resilience can transcend generations. As he dances on the ice, he not only challenges the perception of aging but also inspires younger generations to follow their dreams, no matter how unusual the timeline appears.
