"Fauja Singh, believed to be the world’s oldest distance runner, has died in a road accident in India at the age of 114, says his biographer.
On July 14, 2025, the world lost an extraordinary soul, Fauja Singh, believed to be the world’s oldest marathon runner, who passed away at the age of 114 in a tragic road accident in his native village of Beas Pind, Jalandhar, Punjab. Known affectionately as the "Turbaned Tornado," Singh’s life was a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of the human spirit. His biographer, Khushwant Singh, shared the heartbreaking news on X, writing, “My Turbaned Tornado is no more. He was struck by an unidentified vehicle… in his village, Bias, while crossing the road. Rest in peace, my dear Fauja.” 😢
A Life of Perseverance 🌟
Born on April 1, 1911, in Beas Pind, Punjab, under British colonial rule, Fauja Singh’s early life was marked by challenges. Unable to walk until age five due to weak legs, he was nicknamed "danda" (Punjabi for "stick") by peers who teased him for his frailty. Yet, this same man would later defy all odds, running marathons well into his 100s. Singh’s journey into competitive running began at the remarkable age of 89, sparked by personal tragedy—the loss of his wife, Gian Kaur, in 1992, and his son, Kuldip, in a construction accident in 1994. Running became his refuge, a way to channel grief into purpose. 🏃♂️
In 2000, Singh made his marathon debut at the London Marathon, finishing in 6 hours and 54 minutes—a time that shattered the previous world best for the 90-plus age bracket by 58 minutes. His personal best came in 2003 at the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, clocking an astonishing 5 hours and 40 minutes at the age of 92. In 2011, at the age of 100, he became the first centenarian to complete a full marathon, finishing the Toronto Waterfront Marathon in 8 hours, 11 minutes, and 6 seconds. Although his records were not officially ratified by Guinness World Records due to the absence of a birth certificate, his achievements inspired millions. 🌍
A Global Icon and Sikh Ambassador 🌟🙏
Fauja Singh’s story transcended running. An Indian-born British national who settled in Ilford, East London, in 1992, he became a global Sikh icon, embodying discipline, humility, and resilience. His running club, Sikhs in the City, celebrated his legacy, with coach Harmander Singh calling him an “icon of humanity and powerhouse of positivity.” Singh’s vibrant spirit shone through in his participation as a torchbearer for the 2004 Athens and 2012 London Olympics, and in advertisements alongside legends like David Beckham and Muhammad Ali. His vegetarian diet, featuring Indian sweets like laddu packed with dry fruits and home-churned curd, along with daily farm walks, was credited for his remarkable vitality. 🥗
Singh’s impact reached far beyond the track. He donated most of his endorsement earnings to charitable causes, inspiring countless individuals to embrace fitness and perseverance. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute on X, saying, “Fauja Singh was extraordinary because of his unique persona and the manner in which he inspired the youth of India on a very important topic of fitness. He was an exceptional athlete with incredible determination.” 🗣️
A Tragic End to a Legendary Life 🚗💥
On Monday, July 14, 2025, Singh was walking near his home on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway when he was struck by an unidentified vehicle around 3:30 PM. Despite being rushed to a hospital, he succumbed to a serious head injury by 7:30 PM. His son, Harbinder Singh, confirmed the devastating details, and police have registered an FIR, with a search underway for the driver responsible. Singh’s body was held in a mortuary pending the arrival of his children from abroad for his last rites. The news sent shockwaves through the global running and Sikh communities, with tributes pouring in from figures like Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria and MPs Preet Kaur Gill and Jas Athwal, who hailed him as a “global Sikh icon” and a “legend.” 😞
A Legacy That Will Keep Running 🏅
Fauja Singh’s life was a powerful reminder that age is just a number. From overcoming childhood frailty to running marathons in his 90s and 100s, he showed the world that determination and a positive mindset can conquer any obstacle. His biography, Turbaned Tornado, written by Khushwant Singh and released in 2011, captured his inspiring journey, as did a 2020 children’s book, Fauja Singh Keeps Going, by Simran Jeet Singh. His running club plans to honor him by dedicating events until March 2026 to his memory, with efforts to build the Fauja Singh Clubhouse in Ilford, where he trained. 📚#FaujaSingh
As we mourn the loss of this remarkable man, his words resonate: “The first 20 miles are not difficult. As for the last six miles, I run while talking to God.” Fauja Singh’s spirit will continue to inspire generations to keep moving forward, no matter the odds. Rest in power, Turbaned Tornado. 🕊️
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