At 76 years old, Tapantosh Chakrabarty has become a symbol of perseverance and resilience in the world of long-distance running. This remarkable athlete has completed 70 marathons across all seven continents and recently earned his fifth Six-Star Medal from Abbott World Marathon Majors, solidifying his status as a trailblazer for runners worldwide. His journey, which began in Bangladesh and led him to Canada, is a testament to the transformative power of sport.
A Rocky Start Turns to Triumph
Chakrabarty’s first foray into marathon running almost deterred him from future races. In 2000, he participated in a 42-kilometre marathon in Vancouver and faced a grueling challenge during the final stretch. “I could feel muscles in my legs tightening up here and there,” he recalled, adding, “Then it started to feel like my brain was shaking.” Upon finishing, he was left in excruciating pain, moving sideways like a crab just to reach his destination.
Despite his initial vow never to run again, a few days later, he found himself reflecting on his experience with a newfound appreciation. “After three or four days the pain subsided and I felt good,” he said. This moment marked the beginning of a journey that would see him race across the globe.
A Marathon Journey Across Continents
Born in Matlab, Bangladesh, Chakrabarty moved to Canada in 1975, but it wasn’t until he turned 50 that he found his passion for running. Initially starting with shorter distances, he was inspired to push his limits after observing colleagues benefit from the health advantages of marathon running.
Over the years, he has completed marathons in Berlin, London, Chicago, New York, and Boston seven times each, with Tokyo being a staple six times. He has also tackled the Calgary Marathon four times. In 2025, he notably participated in both the Boston and London marathons just six days apart.
Chakrabarty’s tenacity is further illustrated by his commitment to racing through adversity; he has completed three marathons while battling illnesses such as strep throat and the flu. His personal best was clocked in at 3 hours, 47 minutes, and 13 seconds during the St. George Marathon in Utah back in 2009.
Overcoming Health Challenges
The road to marathon success has not been without its hurdles. In 2010, Chakrabarty was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and in 2015, he faced a life-threatening situation when doctors discovered a 90% blockage in his arteries, necessitating emergency angioplasty. At that time, a nurse quipped that she was glad she wasn’t married to him.
Despite these challenges, Chakrabarty has completed an additional 21 major marathons, now competing in the 75 to 79-year-old age division. “Marathon running isn’t fun but you get a medal, which is different from every other sport,” he remarked, highlighting the unique aspect of running where every finisher receives recognition as long as they cross the line within the designated time.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Chakrabarty’s journey from a childhood without electricity and clean drinking water in Bangladesh to becoming a celebrated marathon runner is truly remarkable. Following a harrowing escape from war-torn Bangladesh in 1971, he persevered through hardship to excel academically, eventually earning a master’s and a PhD at the University of Waterloo in Canada. His academic successes led him to a career as a petroleum engineer with Imperial Oil and Exxon.
Through his marathons, he has encountered extraordinary experiences, including running in a race through the Entabeni Wildlife Safari Conservancy in South Africa, where officials were stationed to protect runners from wild animals. Additionally, competing at the Mount Everest base camp in 2013 required a nine-day trek to acclimatise to the altitude, showcasing his commitment to pushing boundaries.
Chakrabarty funds his marathon adventures through personal savings, as he believes in the health benefits of running. “I’m alive because I am running,” he stated. “I am an example of a marathon’s power to heal.” His influence has even sparked a running movement in Bangladesh, where marathons were virtually non-existent fifteen years ago.
Why it Matters
Chakrabarty’s journey is not just a personal victory; it embodies the spirit of resilience and the ability to overcome obstacles through determination and hard work. His story inspires countless individuals, showing that age and health challenges need not define one’s capabilities. As he continues to race and inspire, Chakrabarty stands as a beacon of hope and motivation, proving that the finish line is never too far away for those willing to chase their dreams.
