British man believed to be world's oldest marathon runner dies aged 114 after being hit by car

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Ed Griffiths

By Ed Griffiths


Published: 16/07/2025

- 11:01

His London-based running club and charity confirmed the sad news

A British runner who was widely recognised as the oldest person to complete a marathon has died aged 114 after being struck by a vehicle in India.

Fauja Singh died in hospital from his injuries following a fatal collision in the Punjabi village of Beas Pind village.


The tragic accident occurred while Singh, who became known as the "Turbaned Tornado" during his remarkable running career, was on a walk.

The extraordinary athlete had made international headlines for his marathon achievements well into his hundreds.

Singh's death marks the end of an inspirational sporting journey that began when he took up running at 83.

His London-based running club and charity, Sikhs in the City, confirmed his death through social media.

The organisation wrote on their Instagram: "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."

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Fauja Singh

REUTERS

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Fauja Singh died in hospital from his injuries

The east London running club announced it would dedicate all forthcoming events to honouring Singh's memory.

The accident occurred in his birthplace of Beas Pind, where Singh had been visiting.

Singh originally worked as a farmer in Punjab before relocating to Ilford in 1992 following the death of his wife, Gian Kaur.

Born on April 1, 1911, during British rule in India, he was the youngest of four siblings and faced early health challenges.

Fauja Singh

PA

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A British runner widely recognised as the oldest person to complete a marathon has died at 114 after being struck by a vehicle in India

The athlete was unable to walk until age five due to frail legs.

His running journey began at 83 as a way to cope with the devastating loss of his fifth son, Kuldip, in August 1994.

The grief-stricken widower discovered that pounding the pavements helped him process his bereavement, ultimately transforming him into an international sporting sensation.

Singh achieved international recognition at the 2000 London Marathon, completing the race in 6 hours and 54 minutes.

This performance shattered the previous world record for the 90-plus category by 58 minutes, establishing him as a pioneering force in senior athletics.

The distinctive runner, known for his flowing white beard and vibrant Sikh turbans, became a beloved figure at marathons worldwide.

His career highlights included achieving a personal best of five hours and 40 minutes and carrying the torch for the London 2012 Olympics.

Singh's remarkable story, which saw him compete until retiring from marathon running at the age of 101, was immortalised in a biography launched at the House of Lords.

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