Tapantosh Chakrabarty, a remarkable 76-year-old marathon runner from Calgary, has achieved an extraordinary milestone by becoming the oldest athlete to earn five Six-Star Medals from the Abbott World Marathon Majors. This achievement follows his recent completion of the Tokyo Marathon, marking his fifth consecutive participation in the event. Chakrabarty’s journey from a challenging upbringing in Bangladesh to conquering marathons on all seven continents is a testament to resilience and the healing power of sport.
A Journey of Transformation
Chakrabarty’s introduction to marathon running was anything but pleasant. His first race in Vancouver in 2000 left him in excruciating pain, leading him to vow never to run again. “I could feel muscles in my legs tightening up here and there,” he recalled. “Then it started to feel like my brain was shaking.” The agony of crossing the finish line was so intense that he had to navigate sideways, reminiscent of a crab. However, just a few days post-race, he experienced a change of heart, fuelled by a renewed sense of clarity and purpose.
Originally from Matlab, Bangladesh, Chakrabarty emigrated to Canada in 1975. His early life was marked by adversity, including a lack of basic amenities and the devastating loss of his father to cholera. After fleeing Bangladesh during a tumultuous war, he and his mother endured hardships that would shape his character. Completing his education at the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, he emerged as a top student before pursuing further qualifications in Canada.
The Marathon Journey
Chakrabarty did not lace up his running shoes until he turned 50. Initially starting with shorter distances, he found inspiration in his colleagues who were reaping health benefits from their own running experiences. Since then, he has completed a staggering 70 marathons, including seven each in Boston and New York, and six in Berlin, London, Chicago, and Tokyo. Notably, he has also tackled an ultramarathon of 90 km in Durban, South Africa.
His most impressive feat came in 2023, 2024, and 2025 when he completed six world major marathons each year. Despite battling illnesses—including a fever and strep throat—he persevered, demonstrating his indomitable spirit. His fastest marathon time stands at 3 hours, 47 minutes, and 13 seconds, achieved in 2009.
Chakrabarty’s health challenges have also shaped his running narrative. After being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2010 and facing an emergency angioplasty due to severe arterial blockage in 2015, he has since completed 21 additional major marathons. “Marathon running isn’t fun, but you get a medal, which is different from every other sport,” he said, underscoring the unique recognition that comes with finishing a marathon.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Chakrabarty’s story and achievements have not only made waves in Canada but have also inspired a running revolution back in Bangladesh. “I have started a revolution,” he declared. “Fifteen years ago, there was not a single marathon there. Now there are so many half-marathons and marathons that you wouldn’t believe it.” His journey has become a beacon of hope for many, showcasing the potential for change and growth through sport.
His forays into unique marathon experiences are equally captivating. In 2013, he participated in a race starting from the base camp of Mount Everest, navigating the treacherous paths and altitude acclimatisation. He fondly recalls the challenges of running amidst the stunning backdrop of South Africa’s wildlife conservancies, where officials ensured the safety of runners from lurking lions.
Why it Matters
Chakrabarty’s remarkable journey from a life filled with hardship to becoming a record-holding marathoner encapsulates the essence of determination and the transformative power of sport. His story resonates far beyond the realm of athletics, illustrating how running can serve as a conduit for health, hope, and inspiration. As he continues to defy age-related expectations, Chakrabarty not only paves the way for older athletes but also challenges societal perceptions about health and longevity. His legacy serves as a powerful reminder that it is never too late to pursue one’s passions and make a lasting impact on the world.
