From time to time I plan to introduce you to some of the amazing centenarians in our world. Fauja singh (1911-2025) from Punjab, India, was one such man. His birth date could not be verified because when he was born, birth certificates were not typically issued in Punjab.
Fauja Singh was marathon runner. He was what you might call a late bloomer. He did not walk until he was five years old, and he began serious marathon running at ag 89. It was after witnessing the death of his fifth son in a construction accident in 1994 that he returned to his passion, running. He used to run up to 20 kilometers a day, so he thought running a marathon would be not too much more, but he didn't realize a marathon was 26 miles, not 26 kilometers.
In any event, he completed his first marathon at age 93 in 6:54, 58 minutes quicker than the world best for the 90-plus age bracket. In 2011, Singh became the first 100 year old man to finish a marathon, completing the Toronto Waterfront Marathon in 8:11:06.
Standing 5'8" tall and weighing only 115 pounds, Singh was built to run. He ate a simple diet of vegetables, yogurt and milk. He did not drink or smoke or eat fried foods.
Fauja Singh died on July 14, 2025, after being hit by an SUV while crossing the road in his native village. His nickname of Sikh Superman certainly fit him, as he held many running records at various distances. He really was a super man, and unfortunately met an untimely death at 114. Who know how much longer he might have lived?
So glad you added me to your blog. I read every one you posted. I’ll just add this my list of all the things I like about you and find interesting.
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