At the age of 76, Tapantosh Chakrabarty continues to redefine the limits of endurance. Having completed an impressive 70 marathons across all seven continents, he recently achieved a remarkable milestone by securing his fifth Six-Star Medal from the Abbott World Marathon Majors. This achievement positions him as the oldest runner to earn this distinction, highlighting his extraordinary journey that began only after he turned 50.
A Rocky Start to Marathon Running
Chakrabarty’s first encounter with marathon running was anything but pleasant. During the Vancouver Marathon in 2000, he experienced an excruciating final stretch that left him contemplating retirement from the sport. “I told myself I would never do it again,” he recalled, recounting the agonising moments when he struggled to finish the race, moving sideways like a crab due to the pain. However, this initial agony transformed into a newfound passion as the pain subsided, prompting him to pursue running more seriously.
Born in Matlab, Bangladesh, in 1947, Chakrabarty’s early life was marked by hardship. His family struggled without basic amenities like electricity or clean drinking water. After fleeing his war-torn homeland in 1971, he journeyed to Canada, where he later earned a master’s and PhD from the University of Waterloo, excelling in chemical engineering.
A Marathoner Across the Globe
Chakrabarty’s marathon journey has taken him across continents, with notable races including the Boston and New York marathons, which he has completed seven times each. In addition, he has participated in various prestigious marathons in Berlin, London, Chicago, and Tokyo, showcasing his unwavering commitment to the sport. His record includes completing marathons while battling illness, including fever and strep throat, demonstrating an extraordinary level of resilience.
In 2023, 2024, and 2025, he took part in six major marathons each year, even managing to finish the Boston and London marathons within six days of one another in 2025. His fastest recorded time stands at an impressive 3 hours, 47 minutes, and 13 seconds during the St. George Marathon in Utah in 2009.
Overcoming Health Challenges
Chakrabarty’s journey has not been without its challenges. In 2010, he was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and by 2015, a significant arterial blockage led to an emergency angioplasty. Yet, these health challenges did not deter him; instead, they served as motivation to continue running. “I’m alive because I am running,” he stated, emphasising the therapeutic benefits he has experienced from his passion for marathons.
His tenacity in the face of adversity has inspired many, both in Canada and his native Bangladesh. “I have started a revolution,” he declared, reflecting on the growth of marathon events in his homeland, which have flourished over the past 15 years, with numerous half-marathons and full marathons now taking place.
A Unique Perspective on Sport
Chakrabarty views marathon running as distinct from other sports, noting that participants are recognised for their efforts regardless of placement as long as they finish within the allotted time. “In marathon running, everyone gets recognised,” he explained. This perspective has motivated countless individuals to embrace running, transforming lives along the way.
His adventures have also taken him to unusual locations, such as racing at the Entabeni Wildlife Safari in South Africa, where wildlife officials ensured runners’ safety from roaming lions. Additionally, he participated in a race that began at the base camp of Mount Everest, a testament to his adventurous spirit and dedication to the sport.
Why it Matters
Chakrabarty’s journey is a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of human resilience and the transformative power of sport. His story not only inspires individuals to challenge their limits but also highlights the importance of health and wellness in later life. As he continues to cross finish lines across the globe, he serves as a beacon of motivation for aspiring runners and a reminder that age is merely a number in the pursuit of one’s passions.
