Iichi Marumo, a former kamikaze pilot, continues to inspire as he prepares to compete at 100, having taken up speedskating only in his late 80s.
**95 and Speedy: The Remarkable Journey of Iichi Marumo, the World’s Oldest Speedskater**
**95 and Speedy: The Remarkable Journey of Iichi Marumo, the World’s Oldest Speedskater**
A 95-year-old Japanese speedskater proves age is just a number as he breaks barriers in competitive sports.
As the world’s oldest competitive speedskater, Iichi Marumo stands as a testament to resilience and determination. At the age of 95, he continues to defy expectations and challenge societal norms about aging. His journey into competitive speedskating began late, at 88, when he participated in his first international race in Moscow. Moving at a speed akin to a brisk jog, he completed the race in a time that would take most competitors by surprise—three times slower than the majority of his fellow skaters. However, his age group earned him a silver medal, and this victory marked the beginning of a series of wins.
Mr. Marumo’s competitive spirit has only intensified over the years. With over 20 gold medals to his name, including awards from races in the Netherlands and Canada, he has dominated a new age category created specifically for him: 95 and over. This ongoing success in his later years not only highlights his prowess on the ice but has also earned him recognition by Guinness as the oldest male speedskater currently active in the sport.
Much of Marumo's life leading up to his speedskating career has been adorned with rich experiences, including a stint as a kamikaze pilot during World War II and a passion for poetry. Now living in Chino, Japan, he remains a source of inspiration for many, challenging not only the physical constraints traditionally associated with aging but also actively promoting a vibrant and full life even into the twilight years. His jovial demeanor, slightly bowed legs, and impish smile reflect a life dedicated to pushing boundaries, both on and off the ice.
As he approaches the age of 100, Marumo's ambition for future competitions resonates as a powerful narrative of growth, hope, and endurance, inspiring a generation to view aging through a new lens. His story illustrates that excellence knows no age, and challenges can be turned into achievements with the right mindset.
Mr. Marumo’s competitive spirit has only intensified over the years. With over 20 gold medals to his name, including awards from races in the Netherlands and Canada, he has dominated a new age category created specifically for him: 95 and over. This ongoing success in his later years not only highlights his prowess on the ice but has also earned him recognition by Guinness as the oldest male speedskater currently active in the sport.
Much of Marumo's life leading up to his speedskating career has been adorned with rich experiences, including a stint as a kamikaze pilot during World War II and a passion for poetry. Now living in Chino, Japan, he remains a source of inspiration for many, challenging not only the physical constraints traditionally associated with aging but also actively promoting a vibrant and full life even into the twilight years. His jovial demeanor, slightly bowed legs, and impish smile reflect a life dedicated to pushing boundaries, both on and off the ice.
As he approaches the age of 100, Marumo's ambition for future competitions resonates as a powerful narrative of growth, hope, and endurance, inspiring a generation to view aging through a new lens. His story illustrates that excellence knows no age, and challenges can be turned into achievements with the right mindset.
