At 95 years old, Iichi Marumo, the world's oldest male speedskater, has launched himself into a competitive world where others half his age are racing. Since starting his competitive journey in his late 80s, he has accumulated over 20 gold medals, holding a unique category for those aged 95 and up. Marumo's spirit and determination reflect years full of varied experiences, including farming, poetry, and even a World War II kamikaze mission.
At 95, Iichi Marumo Aims for Speedskating Glory
At 95, Iichi Marumo Aims for Speedskating Glory
World's oldest speedskater Iichi Marumo defies age by competing and winning gold medals, seeking to inspire others.
In the winter of 2024, Iichi Marumo made headlines as he prepared to compete in a 500m sprint speed skating race in Yamagata City, Japan. Remembered for his first international race in Moscow seven years ago, where he took thrice as long to finish as the other competitors, Marumo's competitive spirit has since only strengthened. His perseverance served him well as he not only completed that race but took home a silver medal in his age bracket, 85 and up.
Despite his advancing years, his most recent participation has sparked excitement with a newly created category—95 and over—where he stands alone, yet triumphant. With an empty yet proud collection of medals hanging on his walls, his unwavering enthusiasm shines through in the interviews he gives from his home in Chino, Japan. He is recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest active male speedskater, with only a Norwegian younger than him competing against his remarkable legacy.
Marumo emphasizes, “I win a gold medal every time I appear,” as he boasts of his extensive collection from international races. With each glide across the ice, this 95-year-old champion continues to inspire countless others, showing that age is just a number in the face of true passion and determination for sport.
Despite his advancing years, his most recent participation has sparked excitement with a newly created category—95 and over—where he stands alone, yet triumphant. With an empty yet proud collection of medals hanging on his walls, his unwavering enthusiasm shines through in the interviews he gives from his home in Chino, Japan. He is recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest active male speedskater, with only a Norwegian younger than him competing against his remarkable legacy.
Marumo emphasizes, “I win a gold medal every time I appear,” as he boasts of his extensive collection from international races. With each glide across the ice, this 95-year-old champion continues to inspire countless others, showing that age is just a number in the face of true passion and determination for sport.
