CHAMKAUR SAHIB (Punjab). Dec. 23, 2004
IANS
Ninety-three years may be a ripe age for many, but Indian-Punjab born
British national Fauja Singh showed youthful energy even at that age
while running his first marathon in his homeland.
London resident Singh ran a complete marathon (41.6 km) on Thursday,
from this Sikh religious town to Fatehgarh Sahib, to commemorate the
300th anniversary of the sacrifice made by the two younger sons of the
last Sikh Guru - Gobind Singh.
He had made headlines when he won the London marathon in the category
of 89-years.
Leading shoe multi-national Adidas prominently featured Singh in its
advertisement campaign in Britain and other Western countries last year.
"This is the first time that I have run a race in my own country
and particularly in Punjab. All this is like a dream come true for me,"
he said in chaste Punjabi.
Singh started running in the early 1990s in London. His first big shot
at the London marathon came only in 2000 when he won in his category.
He recorded a time of 6 hours 54 minutes and 42 seconds in the race
- a record time for his category.
"I have been around the globe, competing in various marathon races.
But this one was special for me. When I got the invite to compete here,
I did not want to miss it. I am very happy to be here," he said.
The never-say-die spirit is clearly evident in Fauja Singh even now.
"I would like to set a new record in the 98-years category,"
he said fondly. The nonagenarian said he keeps fit through a strict
diet routine. He relishes the Indian chapati and pulses (Dal-roti) in
his meals.
Fauja Singh is actively involved with runners in London to train youngsters
for marathon races.
People had lined up at several points along the route to cheer the
900-odd runners in the marathon that was flagged off by Punjab Chief
Minister Amarinder Singh.
The Punjab sports department had provided facilities and medical help
along the route for the runners who braved overcast conditions, fog
and a drizzle and took part in the event.