'World's oldest marathon runner' who lived in UK killed in road accident aged 114

Daily Mirror

a day ago

British runner Fauja Singh, who is believed to be the oldest marathon finisher, has been tragically killed in a road traffic accident in his home village of Beas Pind in India at the age of 114
British-Indian man Fauja Singh, who was believed to be the world's oldest marathon runner, has died in a road accident aged 114. The centenarian Sikh continued running marathons past the age of 100.
Singh, born in Punjab in April 1911, was walking in the village of his birth, Beas Pind, when he was struck by an unidentified vehicle, local reports state.
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He was then taken to hospital, where he later died from his injuries. His London-based running club and charity, Sikhs In The City, confirmed his passing, with his coach Harmander Singh announcing that all of its events will be dedicated to the late runner into 2026.
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Singh had been an Ilford resident since 1992 and ran his first marathon in London in 2000, with his personal best time of five hours and 40 minutes coming three years later. On 16 October 2011, in Toronto, it is believed that he became the first centenarian to finish a marathon.
However, Guinness World Records does not recognise this, as Singh could not produce a birth certificate despite his passport indicating his birthdate and him having received a letter from the Queen to commemorate his 100th birthday.
Singh would later serve as a torchbearer at London 2012 and retire from marathon running at the age of 101. He inspired many, having only started running at the age of 89. He was awarded a BEM in 2015.
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On social media, Singh's coach released a devastating statement: "Dearest runners. It is with great sadness that we can confirm our icon of humanity and powerhouse of positivity Fauja Singh has passed away in India. Aged 114 years old.
"He succumbed to injuries caused by a vehicle accident while crossing the road close to his home. His running club and charity, Sikhs In The City, will be devoting all of its events until the Fauja Singh Birthday Challenge on Sunday March 29 2026 to celebrate his life of success and achievements.
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"We will be doubling the efforts to raise funds to building the Fauja Singh Clubhouse on the route in Ilford where he used to train. In lieu of flowers, please donate to his Clubhouse Appeal so we can carry on his legacy to encourage the world to keep fit and stay positive."
Others have paid tribute to Singh, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who dubbed him an "exceptional athlete with incredible determination."
MP Preet Kaur Gill also paid her respects, posting: "Saddened to hear about the passing of Fauja Singh. I had the honour of meeting him. A truly inspiring man.
"His discipline, simple living, and deep humility left a lasting mark on me. A reminder that age is just a number, but attitude is everything. Rest in power, legend."
MP Jas Athwal added: "Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Sardar Fauja Singh Ji. He was legendary – a man who continued running until he was 101. He was a global Sikh icon, that inspired millions across the world. His spirit and legacy of resilience will run on forever. My heartfelt condolences to all his family and friends. We will miss him. RIP."
Local police say that Singh was crossing the road when he was struck, and that a search is underway to apprehend the accused.