At the age of 76, Tapantosh Chakrabarty has become an icon in the marathon running community, completing an impressive 70 marathons across all seven continents. His latest achievement was finishing the Tokyo Marathon for the fifth consecutive year, earning him a coveted Six-Star Medal from the Abbott World Marathon Majors. Chakrabarty’s journey from Bangladesh to becoming a global marathon runner is not just a testament to his endurance but also a story of resilience and transformation.
A Painful Start
Chakrabarty’s marathon journey began in 2000 with a race in Vancouver that nearly deterred him from running again. Midway through the 42-kilometre challenge, he felt a surge of discomfort. “The last 10 km were brutal,” he recalled. “Muscles were tightening, and it felt like my brain was shaking.” By the time he crossed the finish line, he was in such excruciating pain that he had to move sideways, like a crab, just to walk. “I thought to myself, I would never do that again,” he said. However, the lingering satisfaction of finishing soon overshadowed the pain, and a few days later, he was eager to return to the sport.
From Bangladesh to Canada
Born in Matlab, Bangladesh, Chakrabarty’s early life was marked by hardship. Growing up without electricity and clean water, he faced significant challenges, including the tragic loss of his father to cholera when he was just a child. Amidst the turmoil of the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, he and his mother fled, embarking on a perilous journey that took them across borders and through refugee camps.
After arriving in Canada in 1975, Chakrabarty pursued education vigorously, earning a master’s degree and a PhD in chemical engineering from the University of Waterloo, where he graduated at the top of his class. His career in engineering spanned over three decades with companies like Imperial Oil and Exxon, yet it was only after turning 50 that he discovered his passion for running.
A Global Marathoner
Chakrabarty’s marathon tally includes prestigious races such as Boston, New York, Berlin, London, Chicago, and, of course, Tokyo. He has tackled various challenges, including running while ill with fever and strep throat. His dedication saw him complete marathons in 2023, 2024, and 2025, participating in six world major marathons each year. His fastest recorded time is an impressive 3 hours and 47 minutes, achieved in St. George, Utah, back in 2009.
Diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2010 and later facing significant health issues, including a 90% arterial blockage that required angioplasty, Chakrabarty’s story is one of defiance against the odds. “Marathon running isn’t fun,” he said, “but it’s rewarding. Everyone who finishes gets recognised.” His journey reflects a commitment to health and well-being, showcasing the potential of running to transform lives.
An Inspiration to Many
Chakrabarty’s influence extends beyond his personal achievements. He has become a role model in Bangladesh, where he believes he has sparked a running revolution. “Fifteen years ago, there wasn’t a single marathon in Bangladesh,” he stated proudly. “Now, there are so many half-marathons and marathons that you wouldn’t believe it.” His story is not just about running; it’s about inspiring others to embrace fitness and pursue their dreams, regardless of age or background.
He fondly recalls the time he raced in South Africa’s Entabeni Wildlife Safari, where officials stood guard to protect runners from wildlife. Another unforgettable experience was participating in a marathon that began at the base camp of Mount Everest, a journey that required significant acclimatisation and teamwork among fellow competitors.
Chakrabarty finances his own travel and entry fees through his retirement savings, emphasising that his motivation for running stems from a desire to live a full life. “I’m alive because I am running,” he asserted. “I am living proof of the healing power of marathons. Running has alleviated my symptoms even when I’ve been unwell.”
Why it Matters
Tapantosh Chakrabarty’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. His journey from a challenging upbringing in Bangladesh to becoming a celebrated marathon runner exemplifies how determination can lead to extraordinary achievements. As he continues to inspire others, both in Canada and globally, Chakrabarty’s love for running transcends mere competition; it embodies the hope and strength that lie within us all. In an age where health issues are prevalent, his example serves as a clarion call to embrace physical activity as a means of enhancing our lives and well-being.
