Fauja Singh, the world’s oldest marathon runner, tragically died on July 14, 2025, at age 114 after being struck by a vehicle during a morning walk in his village of Beas Pind, Jalandhar, Punjab.
His remarkable life journey was celebrated worldwide, and his sudden passing has deeply saddened fans and admirers everywhere.
Singh was reportedly walking along the Jalandhar–Pathankot highway at about 3:30 pm when he was hit by an unidentified speeding car.
He was quickly rushed to a nearby hospital but sadly succumbed to his injuries around 8 pm.
The family is grieving a sudden and painful loss however, they find solace in the indelible legacy he leaves behind.
Born on April 1, 1911, in Punjab, Singh overcame early physical challenges and didn’t start walking until age five due to weak legs.
Moreover, he worked as a farmer before emigrating to East London in 1992 after the death of his wife.
His transformation into a long-distance runner began after tragedy struck again, leading him to start running at age 89 as a way to cope with grief.
He earned the nickname “Turbaned Tornado” thanks to his inspirational running spirit.
In 2000, at age 89, he completed his first marathon at London in 6 hours 54 minutes, becoming a symbol of resilience.
Furthermore, at age 100, he set eight world age-group records in a single day in Toronto: running 100m in 23.14s, 200m in 52.23s, and 400m in 2:13.48. Just three days later, he became the first centenarian to finish a marathon the Toronto Waterfront Marathon—in 8 hours 11 minutes 6 seconds.
Despite not being recognized by Guinness due to lack of a birth certificate, his achievements spoke louder than records.
He also took part in marathons in New York, London, Toronto, and Mumbai. Notably, he ran his best in 2003 at the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, finishing in 5 hours 40 minutes at over 90 years old.
His legacy extended beyond running. He was the first non-American to receive the Ellis Island Medal of Honor in 2003 for promoting racial tolerance.
In 2011, he was honored with the Pride of India award, appeared in ads with David Beckham and Muhammed Ali, and inspired the biography Turbaned Tornado.
A biopic titled Fauja was later announced in 2021.
Retiring at 101 after a final 10 km race in Hong Kong, Singh remained active in charity efforts, Sikh cultural promotion, and appeared as a torchbearer at the 2012 London Olympics.
He was also the oldest person featured in a PETA campaign.
His legacy proves it’s never too late to pursue dreams and inspire change.
In reflection, his sudden death in a rural accident contrasts sharply with his rich, active life.
May Fauja Singh’s soul rest in peace!
