Congratulations! Marin 2022 Bike Champion of the Year: Marty Albion

Help us kick off Bike Month by celebrating Marin’s 2022 Bike Champion of the Year! This year, we asked you to nominate someone who inspires others to ride a bike. We’re excited to share this year’s Bike Champion with you: Marty Albion. Read on to find our recent conversation with Marty. And find all the other fabulous nominees listed at the end of the piece!

Getting to know Marty Albion – Marin’s Bike Champion of the Year

Marin resident Marty Albion has been mountain biking and road riding in Marin for many years.  He’s an inspiration to those that know him and ride with him.  According to one nominator, “He exemplifies the pure joy of riding better than anyone I know (and I know tons of riders).”

After an accident last year, many thought that it would be the end of his cycling career. But at 85 years old, Marty is still going strong.  He is the founder of the Dirtbags, a mountain biking group (and select group of friends), and a member of the Old Spokes.

Marty says that cycling keeps him young. “Most Dirtbags are 20-30 years younger than me. They see me riding and keeping up with them and they want to be doing the same when they are my age…still shredding!” Says one of the Dirtbags, “Marty is my biking superhero.”

Originally from Michigan, Marty attended the University of Michigan for undergraduate and medical school.  He moved to Marin in 1962 where he practiced medicine in Greenbrae until he retired in 2010. Marty and his riding buddies can be found in Point Reyes, China Camp, Mt Tam, or in the Marin Headlands. His favorite trail, if he has to pick one, is Bolinas Ridge. And Linda, his wife of 42 years, regularly joins him for a road ride.

“I plan to keep at it for as long as I can!” says Marty!

Marty is an inspiration to us all. And with 12 nominations, he was an easy choice for Marin’s Bike Champion of the Year.