Fauja Singh—affectionately known as the “Turbaned Tornado”—was a legendary Indian-British marathon runner celebrated as the world’s oldest marathoner.
Born on April 1, 1911 in Beas Pind, Punjab, Fauja began serious marathon running in 2000 at age 89, following personal tragedies—the deaths of his wife and son—which motivated him to embrace fitness.
He completed nine full marathons, including six in London, two in Toronto, and one in New York. At 92, he set a 5 h 40 m record at the 2003 Toronto Waterfront Marathon.
Historic centurion feat: In 2011, at age 100, he became the first known centenarian to finish a marathon—the Toronto Waterfront Marathon—in 8 h 11 m.
Fauja was honored with the British Empire Medal in 2015, he carried the Olympic torch (2012 London), featured in Adidas’s “Impossible is Nothing” campaign, and appeared alongside David Beckham, Muhammad Ali and in PETA appeals.
Fauja Singh tragically died on July 14, 2025, at around age 114, after being struck by an unidentified vehicle in his native Beas Pind, Punjab.
Fauja Singh’s life journey—from a late start in running to making global headlines—demonstrated that dedication, courage, and positivity can defy age. His legacy endures as a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your passions.
