Toronto’s annual Waterfront Marathon was held today, and among 22 000 runners running the day’s three races, one stood out in particular– a certain Fauja Singh, British citizen, 100-years old this April. Singh set a Guinness World Record as the first centenarian to complete a marathon in history.

The runner lost his wife and son to tragic circumstances 20 years ago, but the runner’s outlook is to maintain constant focus on the positive, and trains hard each day, jogging and walking 8 to 10 miles daily. Through his running, he aims to aid local charities, including the Guru Gobind Singh Children’s Foundation, which helps children meet basic needs. The feat has been a great success for Singh, who has stated before “I won’t stop running until I die. The next target, God willing, is to be the oldest marathon runner ever.” The inspiring man isn’t planning on stopping either, declaring “I have said before that I will carry on running as it is keeping me alive.”

Fauja Singh’s determination and dedication to his work is an inspiration, a true testament to the capacities of human perseverance. The fruits of his hard work and tenacity, despite obstacles and difficult times he’s experienced can be an example and a hope for all.