At the age of 76, Tapantosh Chakrabarty has etched his name into the annals of marathon history by becoming the oldest runner to achieve five Six-Star Medals from the Abbott World Marathon Majors. Completing his fifth consecutive Tokyo Marathon in March 2026, Chakrabarty’s journey from a hesitant beginner to an international marathon legend exemplifies resilience and the transformative power of sport.
A Marathon Journey Begins
Chakrabarty’s first foray into marathon running in 2000 in Vancouver was nearly his last. While the initial stages of the 42-kilometre race felt manageable, the final 10 kilometres presented an excruciating challenge. “I could feel muscles in my legs tightening up here and there,” he recalled from his home in Calgary. “Then it started to feel like my brain was shaking.” Struggling to finish, he resorted to shuffling sideways, likening his movement to that of a crab. Exhausted and in pain, he vowed never to run a marathon again.
However, just days later, after the physical agony subsided, a newfound clarity emerged. “My brain is as clear as the sky overhead,” he said, and thus began a remarkable journey that would see him complete 70 marathons and an ultramarathon across all seven continents.
Overcoming Adversity
Born in Bangladesh in 1947, Chakrabarty’s early life was fraught with hardship. His family lacked basic necessities, and after losing his father to cholera, he and his mother fled Bangladesh during a war. They undertook a perilous journey to India, where they survived on meagre rations of lentils and rice. Despite these challenges, Chakrabarty excelled academically, eventually earning a master’s degree and a PhD in chemical engineering from the University of Waterloo.
His professional career saw him work as a petroleum engineer for over 35 years, but it was the sport of marathon running that would redefine his life. Diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2010 and facing significant health issues, including a critical arterial blockage in 2015, Chakrabarty’s commitment to running became a lifeline.
“Marathon running isn’t fun, but you get a medal, which is different from every other sport,” he remarked. “In others if you come home worse than third you leave empty-handed. In marathon running, everyone gets recognised as long as you cross the finish line by an allotted time.”
A Legacy of Inspiration
Chakrabarty’s marathon accomplishments are remarkable. He has participated in the Boston and New York marathons seven times and has run the Berlin, London, Chicago, and Tokyo marathons six times each. In 2025, he completed both the Boston and London marathons just six days apart, showing no signs of slowing down. His fastest time was an impressive 3 hours, 47 minutes, and 13 seconds in 2009.
Yet, his passion extends beyond personal accolades. Chakrabarty has ignited a running revolution in Bangladesh, where marathons were virtually non-existent 15 years ago. “Now there are so many half-marathons and marathons that you wouldn’t believe it,” he stated proudly, signifying his role as a catalyst for change in his homeland.
His adventures have also taken him to incredible locations, including a race at the Entabeni Wildlife Safari Conservancy in South Africa, where wildlife officials ensured the safety of runners from roaming lions. Another unforgettable experience was a race that commenced at the first base camp on Mount Everest, requiring an arduous trek and acclimatisation to the altitude.
The Healing Power of Running
Chakrabarty funds his marathon pursuits through retirement savings, emphasising that his motivation is rooted in health rather than financial gain. “I’m alive because I am running,” he affirmed. He believes in the healing properties of marathon running, attributing immediate relief from symptoms of illness to his commitment to the sport.
His story resonates with many, particularly those facing their own health challenges. Chakrabarty serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that age and adversity need not be barriers to success.
Why it Matters
Tapantosh Chakrabarty’s journey from hardship to triumph is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of sports on health and well-being. His achievements not only inspire countless individuals in Canada and abroad but also contribute to a growing global movement that celebrates physical fitness and mental fortitude. As he continues to break barriers, Chakrabarty reminds us all of the power of perseverance and the importance of pursuing our passions, regardless of age or circumstance.
