World’s Oldest Marathon Runner Dies At 114 After Fatal Hit-And-Run Incident

World’s Oldest Marathon Runner Dies At 114 After Fatal Hit-And-Run Incident

Sad news out of India.

Fauja Singh, the legendary runner believed to be the oldest person to ever complete a marathon, has sadly passed away at 114 after being struck in a hit-and-run incident in his home village of Beas Pind, India.

According to reports, Singh was attempting to cross the road on Monday (July 14) when he was hit by a vehicle. His son, Harvinder Singh, confirmed that the driver fled the scene and that police are currently investigating. Singh was taken to a hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Known worldwide as an icon of endurance and positivity, Singh captured international attention after running his first marathon at the age of 89, completing the 2000 London Marathon in an impressive 6 hours and 54 minutes. He went on to break multiple records in various age brackets, including running a personal best of 5 hours and 40 minutes at the 2003 Toronto Waterfront Marathon at over 90 years old.

 

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Singh received a number of prestigious honors and recognitions throughout his running career, and retired from official marathons in 2013 but remained active, walking up to 10 miles daily. He credited his health and longevity to a vegetarian diet, abstaining from alcohol and tobacco, and maintaining a humble lifestyle.

Rest in peace to a true pioneer who proved that it’s never too late to chase your goals and cross the finish line with grace.

[VIA]