Joginder Singh, 82, Wins 5K Race; Harbhajan Singh, 70, Finishes Third In SF Half Marathon

Photo:  Joginder Singh Sahi (Left), Harbhajan Singh (Right)

India-West Staff Reporter

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – The 47th San Francisco Marathon saw a remarkable turnout this year, with around 31,000 athletes from across the globe participating in the two-day event held on July 26 and 27.

Among the notable achievements were 82-year-old Joginder Singh of Manteca, who finished first in the 5K race, and 70-year-old Harbhajan Singh of Fresno, who secured third place in the half marathon (13.1 miles).

The marathon showcased a significant presence of Sikh athletes from various California regions, including Manteca, Lathrop, the Bay Area, Los Angeles, and Fresno. Participants included Rajinder Sekhon, Darshan Singh, Kulwant Gill, Kevin Ghuman, Joginder Singh, Rajinder Tanda, Kamaljit Singh, Narinder Kaur, Jyoti Kaur Brar, Charan Bhandal, Harbhajan Singh, and others.

The increasing participation of older Sikhs in sports and athletic events highlights a growing trend toward maintaining a healthy lifestyle through outdoor activities, the athletes told the media.

The SF Marathon contributes to the community by donating to various local and national non-profits, including the Alzheimer’s Association, America Scores Bay Area, San Francisco Safehouse, Silver Charity Partners, Active Minds Inc., Friends of the Urban Forest, and Josie’s Place.

The marathon weekend featured a full marathon, half-marathon, ultra marathon, 5K, 10K, and other related events, attracting attention not only from Californians but from participants and spectators worldwide. This year’s races were held under overcast and slightly cool weather conditions, providing an ideal setting for the athletes.