Punjabi legend Fauja Singh has redefined what it means to be an OAP. The elderly role model has not only changed the face of marathon running, but has become an advocate for the power positive thinking.
“When I went through a major trauma in my life, I had to overcome it in a positive way. I started taking exercises more seriously.”
Over the last 20 years, the ‘Turbaned Tornado’ has shocked crowds with his incredible sporting achievements despite reaching the big 100!
Fauja’s next big move sees him join hands with Ford in their brand-new campaign. Centred around the theme of “Unlearn” the new ad shows Singh in his element as he jogs briskly through a park on a cold winter’s day.
The energetic OAP used running to channel his grief when he lost his beloved wife in 1992 and his son in a construction accident in 1994, using it as an opportunity to move forward with life.
As the ambassador for Ford’s new Unlearn campaign, Fauja urges people to step outside of their comfort zones. Speaking behind the scenes of the ad, the celebrated centenarian explained what ‘unlearn’ meant to him.
“When I went through a major trauma in my life, I had to overcome it in a positive way. I started taking exercises more seriously.”
Adding: “I think I am an ambassador for Unlearn because of what I’ve achieved. I’ve changed people’s minds about old people so that they think old people can achieve much themselves.”
“I wanted to have a new focus in life, but that also benefited others.”
Richard Beard, Ford’s marketing manager says: “Unlearn is about casting aside preconceptions, having another think about Ford, and reappraising. It’s about not being held back by limiting beliefs.”
At the ripe old age of 104, the record-breaking marathon runner is a living embodiment of the importance of thinking positively and living well.
