World's oldest man says sorry he's still alive

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2007

TOKYO (AFP) — A 111-year-old Japanese engineer born at the end of the century before last was awarded official recognition Monday as the world's newest oldest man, and joked he was sorry for still being alive.

Tomoji Tanabe, a teetotaller who has repeatedly said that avoiding alcohol was a secret of his longevity, was given a certificate from the Guinness Book of World Records by the mayor of his local municipality.

Tanabe, from Miyazaki prefecture on the southern island of Kyushu, was born on September 18, 1895 -- before Japan became a world player, Australia became independent or the Wright Brothers created the first plane.

"It is nothing special," he said, adding tongue-in-cheek, "I have lived too long. I am sorry."

With the recognition, Japan...