Punjab-born Fauja Singh, who defies age to run marathons, drew the
loudest cheers today as the Olympic Torch was carried by him, Olympic
medal winners and leading individuals through London amidst a welcome
clear sky and sunshine.
Clad in all-white apparel and a matching white turban, the sprightly Singh carried the torch accompanied by hundreds of
admirers, including Sikhs with yellow T-shirts bearing Singh's image,
who hailed him every moment of the distance he travelled.
Singh was born in 1911, and began running at 86 to keep himself occupied.
He has since set several records for people of his age, running six
London marathons, two Canada marathons and the New York marathon.
Clearly a bit of a sensation for his achievements, his participation
in the relay today was described by admirers and onlookers as "a moment
of history".
Singh, who carried the Olympics Torch in Athens eight years ago, now
wants to carry it before the 2016 Olympics too, when he will be 105.
Hundreds of Sikhs organised a 'langar' at 16 points along the torch relay route to celebrate Fauja Singh's efforts.
The torch from Greenwich to Waltham Forest was carried by several
Olympians, including Nadia Comaneci, and Indian-origin individuals who
have excelled in various fields, such as Kaushali Trivedi (23), Natasha
Sinha (15), Priya Rajgor (20) and Dhrashti Shah (16).
The relay's youngest and oldest (Fauja Singh) were among the 143 torch-bearers today.
The youngest was Chester Chambers, 12, who was nominated for
representing his classmates, fundraising and helping to develop an
anti-bullying campaign.
Today was the first day of the Olympics torch's seven-day tour of London in the final countdown to the Games.
Hopes that the constant rains of the last few weeks will give way to
sunshine during the Olympics were realised, as today's relay was held
amidst a clear sky.
with thanks : Hindustan Times : Link : for detailed news
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