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Elderly Sikh Runners Make History in 47th San Francisco Marathon. In a remarkable display of endurance and spirit, the 47th San Francisco Marathon saw elderly Sikh runners making headlines. The two-day event, held on July 26 and 27, attracted around 31,000 athletes from across the globe, but it was the performances of two Sikh seniors that truly stood out.
Among them, 82-year-old Joginder Singh from Manteca won first place in the 5K race. His achievement is a testament to the dedication and resilience that has inspired many. Meanwhile, 70-year-old Harbhajan Singh from Fresno took third place in the half marathon, completing the challenging 13.1-mile course with determination and grace.
The marathon not only brought out competitive runners but also highlighted the growing participation of older Sikhs in athletic events. Runners from various California regions, including Manteca, Lathrop, the Bay Area, Los Angeles, and Fresno, contributed to this trend. These participants, such as Rajinder Sekhon, Darshan Singh, Kulwant Gill, Kevin Ghuman, Joginder Singh, Rajinder Tanda, Kamaljit Singh, Narinder Kaur, Jyoti Kaur Brar, Charan Bhandal, and Harbhajan Singh, exemplify a commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle through outdoor activities.
The SF Marathon is more than just a race; it’s a community event that gives back. Proceeds from the marathon support numerous local and national non-profits, including the Alzheimer’s Association, America Scores Bay Area, San Francisco Safehouse, Silver Charity Partners, Active Minds Inc., Friends of the Urban Forest, and Josie’s Place. These contributions underscore the marathon’s broader impact beyond the racecourse.
This year’s marathon weekend featured a variety of races, including a full marathon, half marathon, ultra marathon, 5K, and 10K. The slightly cool, overcast weather provided an ideal setting for athletes, enhancing their performances and making the event enjoyable for participants and spectators alike.
The achievements of Joginder Singh and Harbhajan Singh serve as an inspiration, showing that age is no barrier to staying active and competitive. Their success in this year’s SF Marathon adds a significant chapter to the ongoing narrative of Sikh athletes making their mark in sports.
