The Extraordinary Journey of Iichi Marumo: The World’s Oldest Competitive Speedskater
At the age of 95, Iichi Marumo, a Japanese speedskater, continues to defy expectations and break records as the world’s oldest male competitive speedskater. His journey is one of resilience, passion, and inspiration, captivating audiences both in Japan and around the globe. Marumo’s story is not just about speedskating; it’s about living life to the fullest, embracing challenges, and finding joy in unexpected places. This article delves into Marumo’s remarkable life, his journey into competitive sports at an advanced age, and the lessons he offers to people of all ages.
From Childhood Skating to International Glory
Iichi Marumo’s love for skating began when he was just 10 years old, growing up in rural Japan. With handmade metal blades tied to wooden sandals, he skated across frozen rice paddies, racing with classmates. This early connection to the sport laid the foundation for a lifetime of passion. However, life took unexpected turns. At 15, Marumo volunteered for a kamikaze mission during World War II, a decision that could have ended his life prematurely. Thankfully, the war ended before he was deployed, granting him a second chance. This experience shaped his philosophy of making the most of life, a theme that would define his future.
After the war, Marumo returned to farming, where he became a successful celery farmer, earning recognition from Emperor Hirohito for his agricultural innovations. He also developed a deep love for tanka, a form of traditional Japanese poetry, and started a monthly magazine dedicated to this art form. Skating remained a constant in his life, primarily as a form of exercise. It wasn’t until he was 86 that a friend dared him to compete in a speedskating race, a decision that would catapult him into the spotlight.
A Late Bloomer in Competitive Sports
When Iichi Marumo competed in his first international race at 88, he finished with a time three times slower than most skaters. Yet, he still won a silver medal in the 85-and-over category. Since then, he has won gold in every race he has entered, including races in Holland and Canada. His success has been so unprecedented that Japan’s skating federation has had to create new age categories just for him, including the most recent "95 and over" category. Despite the lack of competition in this category, Marumo’s determination and enthusiasm have made him a celebrated figure in the world of speedskating.
Marumo’s approach to racing is unique. Unlike younger athletes, he doesn’t prioritize speed or aggressive training. Instead, he focuses on enjoying the experience, taking care not to fall, and embracing the camaraderie of the sport. His philosophy is simple: "I never expected to be an international racer," he says, emphasizing that racing is a fun way to spend his time. This mindset has made him a beloved figure, both on and off the ice.
Overcoming Adversity with Determination
Iichi Marumo’s journey has not been without challenges. In his most recent race in January, he faced harsh conditions—an outdoor track and a blizzard. Despite falling early in the race, Marumo refused to give up. Unable to get back on his feet, he crawled across the ice for 17 minutes to complete the 500-meter course. The pain was immense, but his determination to finish was unwavering. "My left leg froze from the pain," he recalled, "but I had to finish."
This resilience has defined Marumo’s life. After the race, he considered retiring from the sport, even announcing his retirement before undergoing hernia surgery. However, he has since reconsidered, expressing his desire to race again if his health permits. For Marumo, skating is more than just a sport; it’s a way of celebrating a life that was almost cut short during the war.
The Legacy of a Living Legend
Iichi Marumo’s impact extends far beyond his medals and records. He has become a minor celebrity in Japan, a country with a rapidly aging population. His story has inspired many to embrace physical activity and pursue their passions, regardless of age. In a society where senior sports are gaining popularity, Marumo stands out as a "poster boy" for senior winter sports. "He’s inspiring people to try to do what he’s doing," says Kenji Takai, director of the Japan Association for Winter Masters Sports.
Marumo’s influence is not limited to Japan. He has challenged the traditional boundaries of Masters sports, where "Masters" typically refer to athletes aged 30 and up. At 95, he is more than three times older than most Masters athletes. His achievements have pushed organizations to create new age categories, paving the way for older athletes to compete fairly. As Takai hopes, Marumo may even inspire the creation of a 100-and-over category in the future.
Reflections on a Life Well-Lived
Iichi Marumo’s life is a testament to the power of resilience, curiosity, and joy. From surviving World War II to becoming a Guinness World Record holder, his story is one of remarkable twists and turns. He has found success in diverse fields—agriculture, poetry, and sports—each of which reflects his boundless energy and creative spirit.
Marumo’s approach to life offers valuable lessons for people of all ages. He reminds us that it’s never too late to try something new, that age is not a barrier to achievement, and that joy can be found in the simplest of activities. As he looks ahead, Marumo has one clear goal: to keep skating as long as he can. "I retired once," he says. "I don’t want to do that again."
In Iichi Marumo, we see a living legend who continues to inspire, proving that life’s greatest adventures can unfold at any age. His story is a reminder to embrace life with gratitude, courage, and a sense of humor, no matter where our journeys take us.
