Fauja Singh, revered as the world's oldest marathon runner of Indian origin at 101 years, has bid farewell to competitive racing this Sunday. Singh feels 'overjoyed' after crossing the finish line in what marks his last race.
Affectionately known as the 'Turbaned Tornado,' Singh completed the 10-kilometer Hong Kong Marathon in an impressive one hour, 32 minutes, and 28 seconds. Although he fell short of surpassing his personal record, his spirit remains unwavering.
Speaking only Punjabi, Singh expressed, 'I am very happy. During the race, I felt great, but now I have stopped, I am tired.' Born in India, British citizen Fauja Singh is set to celebrate his 102nd birthday on April 1st. Notably, he became the oldest marathon participant in history after running a full marathon in Toronto in 2011, although the Guinness World Records declined to recognize this due to lack of a birth certificate.
Before making his home in England, Singh was a farmer in Punjab and has participated in nine 26-mile marathons in London, Toronto, and New York. His best time was recorded in Toronto, with a time of five hours, 40 minutes, and four seconds. Singh assures that he does not suffer from any illness.
A singular regret in his life has been the language barrier; unable to speak or read English, Singh has carried the Olympic torch at the 2012 London Olympics. Reflecting before his race today, he shared, 'I will remember this day and will miss it, but I will not stop running for charity.'
