Turbaned Tornado Fauja Singh, Worlds’ oldest marathon runner dies in tragic road accident in native Jalandhar, Punjab
Fauja Singh, a 114-year-old marathon runner, died in a road accident on Monday evening. He was struck by an unidentified vehicle while crossing the road and later died at a private hospital.
Fauja Singh, also known by his nickname ‘Turbaned tornado’, had gained global fame for beginning his marathon career in 2000 at 89 and was known as the world’s oldest marathon runner. That year, he also took part in the London Marathon. In 2011, he became the oldest person to complete a full marathon after finishing the Toronto Waterfront Marathon.
He continued to gather many age group records and continued running till her was 101.
Singh’s family said that he had been out for a walk on the national highway near his house when he was hit by the vehicle.
He passed away after succumbing to his injuries at his native village in Punjab's Jalandhar district.
His death was confirmed by Kushwant Singh, who authored the biography The Turbaned Tornado. He made a post on X that said, "My Turbaned Tornado is no more. It is with great sadness that I share the passing of my most revered S. Fauja Singh. He was struck by an unidentified vehicle around 3:30 pm today in his village, Bias, while crossing the road. Rest in peace, my dear Fauja." He said that he had spoken to his family members, according to PTI.
The car that struck Singh has not been identified. His son had informed the police following the incident, according to SHO Hardevpreet Singh of Adampur Police Station. The driver was registered for a case of rash and negligent driving. Thana Incharge HP Preet Singh said, "We have registered a case under the relevant sections. The accident happened on the main road near Beas city. We are checking the CCTVs."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on X, "Fauja Singh Ji 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 added that he was "Pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and countless admirers around the world."
Punjab LoP and Congress MLA Partap Singh Bajwa said that "He was a veteran athlete and possibly the longest surviving human." and that "His name will be written in history in golden words." while speaking to ANI.
Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator, Gulab Chand Kataria, also posted a message about the runner on X that said, "Deeply saddened by the passing of Sardar Fauja Singh Ji, the legendary marathon runner and symbol of resilience. At 114, he joined me in the 'Nasha Mukt, Rangla Punjab' march with unmatched spirit. His legacy will continue to inspire a drug-free Punjab. Om Shanti Om.” Fauja Singh had joined Kataria in a walkathon to spread awareness against drug abuse.
Singh had moved to England in the 1990s. In 1999, he decided to run marathons for charity, with his first run being for premature babies. Lord Anthony Young of Norwood Green had formally released the biography of Fauja Singh in 2011 in London.
He was also a torch bearer for the 2012 London Olympics. In 2013, Singh was honoured at a local school in Fatehgarh Sahib. He said that one of his goals was to promote understanding of the Sikh culture.
"My beard and my turban have enhanced my respect in the world, and I believe in God... That's the reason I was able to accomplish my goals in life," he said.
India