In brief
Iichi Marumo, at 95 years old, has made history as the oldest speedskater, winning gold medals in his newly created age category. With a whimsical charm and a lifetime of achievements, he continues to defy age through his love for skating.
At 95 years old, Iichi Marumo is making headlines as the oldest competitive speedskater in the world. Despite beginning his racing career at the age of 88, Marumo has proven that age is just a number. His debut in international racing in Moscow had him zooming at a pace similar to a brisk jog, yet it earned him a silver medal in the 85 and older category.Fast-forward to the present, he now competes in an age group he dominates—95 and over—where he consistently takes home gold. Known for his lively spirit and impish smile, Marumo proudly displays over 20 gold medals from competitions across the globe, including races in Canada and the Netherlands.With a life rich in experiences, including farming, poetry, and a past as a kamikaze volunteer in WWII, Marumo continues to inspire many by showing that determination transcends age. As he sets his sights on future competitions, he proves that life can be a thrilling race, regardless of how many years you’ve seen go by.
