Iichi Marumo, at 95 years old, is celebrated as the world's oldest male competitive speedskater. Starting his competitive career at 88, he quickly achieved remarkable success, winning gold medals consistently in his newly created age category, 95 and over. Not only does Mr. Marumo boast an impressive collection of over 20 gold medals from various countries, but he also embodies the spirit of perseverance and joy in sport, having skated throughout his life and earning recognition from Guinness for his unique achievements.
I win a gold medal every time I appear, Mr. Marumo said in an interview at his home in Chino, a small city in the rugged mountains of central Honshu, Japan's main island.
He has won only gold. Now 95, in his most recent race, a national competition in Japan in January, he competed in a category that was created just for him: 95 and over.
A small man with slightly bowed legs and an impish smile, Mr. Marumo has been skating his whole life, but he began his competitive career at an age when most people would feel lucky to still be alive.
On his wall, plaques from Guinness proclaim him to be the world's oldest male competitive speedskater. His closest rival is a Norwegian skater who is five years younger.
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