When Bill Marshall says that he has biked 17,000 miles in the past 25 ½ months, logging 35 miles a day, he is able to say this with certainty. Bill keeps very accurate records to motivate himself to keep cycling. Bill rides the “churchyard route”, as he likes to call it, which is slightly inclined, enabling Bill to keep his heart rate up to an impressive 80%. Bill enjoys cycling because “it’s a good cardiovascular workout.” He is quick to add, “It gives me a good feeling.”

Bill cycles year round as long as the ground isn’t frozen. In addition to cycling in Akron, Bill has ridden the Samuel Justus Recreational Trail, in Franklin, Pennsylvania. This beautiful trail spans both sides of the Alleghany River. He has also ridden the Greenbrier Trail in West Virginia and the Old Railroad Bike Trail located in Algonquin Provincial Park in Canada. In addition to these trails, Bill also recommends the Youghiogheny River Bike Trail, which can be found in Pennsylvania’s Ohiopyle State Park.

Bill has this advice to share with his fellow cyclists: “Even the most experienced cyclists can have accidents.” Having had a recent accident, Bill advises cyclists, “Be careful of unexpected contingencies.” Bill advises cyclists not to get discouraged, and to consider riding in increments to motivate themselves to reach goals. He adds, “Recordkeeping for reaching personal riding goals is a key using a good quality odometer.”
Bill hikes with a group of friends every Saturday morning, choosing a different trail each week. Bill also enjoys swimming for its cardiovascular benefits. You’ll find Bill walking his two basset hounds, each day, around Indigo Lake.

Bill lives in West Akron with his companion, Ruthie, and his two basset hounds, Happy and Murphy. He is a member of St. Vincent Church. At age 69 ½, Bill feels, “The Lord has blessed me with good health.” Bill, with all of your outdoor activities, it seems that you may be assisting the Lord in this particular area! May your blessings continue!