Tributes pour in for legendary marathoner Fauja Singh
Fauja Singh, the iconic centenarian marathoner, passed away on Monday, leaving Ludhiana and the wider sporting world in mourning. From sports veterans to young athletes, everyone is remembering the indomitable spirit of the legendary marathoner, who inspired generations with his unwavering passion for running and resilience.
His connection with Ludhiana runs deep, including a memorable visit to The Tribune’s Ludhiana office in 2013, a moment captured in a photograph and frozen in time. He was brimming with energy, charm and an infectious zest for life that lit up the place. It’s a day still fondly remembered by those who witnessed his unstoppable spirit first-hand.
Fauja Singh’s disciplined lifestyle and extraordinary accomplishments inspired countless athletes across the region. RS Gill, president of the Punjab Basketball Association, and honorary general secretary Teja Singh Dhaliwal described him as an icon whose commitment to running motivated athletes of all ages. “His participation in numerous marathons and enduring spirit will be remembered for generations,” they said.
Balraj Sharma, international referee and CEO of the Punjab Swimming Association, paid homage to him for the legend’s resilience, “His legacy will continue to inspire future generations and leave an indelible mark on the world of sports,” Sharma said.
Hockey Olympian and president of Hockey Ludhiana Hardeep Singh Grewal, said: “Fauja Singh’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings to global recognition will inspire countless individuals to pursue their passions and defy age and expectation.”
Across educational institutions in Doraha and nearby areas, special assemblies were held to honour the Sikh ‘superman’. Schools, including Government Senior Secondary School, Umaidpur, Government Senior Secondary School, Doraha, and Guru Nanak National College, Doraha, observed a two-minute silence, offered prayers and delivered heartfelt messages.
Former DSO Mohinder Singh and Dr Nirlep Kaur Deol of the GNNC, Doraha, and physical education teachers and coaches, shared emotional tributes. Speaking to athletes and students, they recalled Singh’s unwavering energy, his refusal to relent and his lifelong commitment to running.
“He stayed robust and spirited till the end, such personalities are rarely born,” they expressed.
Tributes were also paid to the marathoner at Government Senior Secondary School, Dhandari, School of Eminence, Sahnewal, Government Senior Secondary School, Harnampura, Government Senior Secondary School, Bhagpur, and Guru Nanak Model Senior Secondary School.
Fauja Singh may have run his last race but his legacy will continue to inspire Ludhiana and beyond. His story is not only one of athletics triumph but also of human spirit, at its most enduring.
Ludhiana