In brief
At an extraordinary 95 years old, Iichi Marumo is not just the world’s oldest speedskater, but he's also racking up victories and pushing the boundaries of age. After beginning his competitive speed skating journey in his late 80s, Marumo’s resilience is evident, earning him gold medals in a custom category of 95 and over.
In his early years, Marumo lived a diverse life—from farming and poetry to participating in a kamikaze mission during WWII. His journey into the world of speedskating began seven years ago when he took part in his first international race in Moscow. Back then, he was 88 years old, and his slow pace—about that of a brisk jog—still earned him a silver medal in his age category.Now 95, Marumo recently competed in Japan, where he stands unmatched in his age group. “I win a gold medal every time I appear,” he proudly states, noting that he keeps his medals—including over 20 gold—from competitions in Holland and Canada, showcasing his relentless spirit.Marumo’s commitment to the sport has brought him to earn recognition from Guinness as the oldest male competitive speedskater. His closest rival is a Norwegian who is five years his junior, proving the rarity of his exceptional feats. The oldest female competitor, meanwhile, is currently an 80-year-old from the Netherlands.Living in Chino, Japan, within the scenic mountains of Honshu, Marumo continues to inspire not only with his athletic prowess but also with his story of longevity, resilience, and passion for life. As he sets his sights on turning 100, Marumo embodies the belief that it is never too late to pursue one’s dreams.
