Hong Kong
(CNN) -- Not your average great-great grandfather,
Fauja Singh has completed nine 26-mile (42-kilometer) marathons
since taking up long-distance running just over a decade ago.
On Sunday, the 101-year-old Sikh finished his final competitive
race in Hong Kong, putting an end to a sporting career that has
raised thousands of dollars for charity and been an inspiration to
many around the world.
Nicknamed "Turbaned Tornado" by fans for his distinctive
traditional headwear, Singh said he began long-distance running in
an attempt to lift the depression that engulfed him after he
witnessed the death of his son.
"I suffered a tragic incident in my life, a traumatic experience; I
took up running as a new focus in life. And then marathon running
developed from there," he told CNN at a training session before
Sunday's race.
He completed the 10-kilometer route that wound its way along Hong
Kong's harborfront in one hour 32 minutes and 28 seconds -- four
minutes faster than his time last year despite a small stumble.
"Five or six kilometers into the race, I really decided to go for
it," he said. "I had lots of power today because I was very happy.
"
Singh moved to the UK from India following the death of his son and
entered his first marathon in London in 2000 aged 89.
In 2011, Singh became the first centenarian on record to complete a
marathon after finishing the Toronto Waterfront Marathon in 2011 in
eight hours and 11 minutes and six seconds.
He was also a torchbearer for the 2012 Olympics and was featured in
Adidas' "Impossible is nothing" advertising campaign.
"He's focused, determined and single minded ... he's never set out
to break records," said his trainer Harmander Singh, who has been
coaching him for 13 years.
Although the Hong Kong event was Singh's last competitive race, his
coach said the centenarian will still run for pleasure.
"He's my best student, I would say, which is ironic because he's
twice my age."
As he hangs up his running shoes, Singh told CNN he had no secret
diet or training regimen. He attributed his success to a simple
love of the sport.
"It's because of the happiness I get out of it. If something makes
you happy, you'll do it well."