Hudson marathoner hitting his stride

Running for a cause

Otherwise known by his many supporters as “Mr. Greenwood,” Young has parlayed the personal challenge that was inspired by watching recent Olympics events into a chance to collect funds toward restoration projects at Greenwood.

The oldest portions of the living history museum in Hudson date to 1732, and according to Young, “there are always wonderful treasures that need to be restored.”

As of this week, close to $500 has been collected by people sponsoring the run at roughly $1 per kilometre.

“It’s an odd number to sponsor so some people just donated a round number,” he said with a laugh, adding that he’s running to conserve Greenwood’s treasures and his own body.

Sponsor donations will be accepted by Greenwood even after the event has concluded.

A lifelong sport

Young began his love affair with running 30 years ago after breaking his hip in a 1978 skiing accident.

“I wasn’t in very good shape then and it was just the start of the running craze so I gave it a try,” he recalled.

Noting that the “low tech” sport can be done year round with just a good pair of shoes as equipment and in any kind of weather, Young said he also discovered an unexpected side benefit to jogging.

“It’s a sort of meditation for me,” he said. “I have three routes that I run in Hudson and I often get momentarily disoriented because I’m so deep in thought while I’m going along.”

Young said he tries to run everyday even when not in training, but that he’s increased his distances in order to get ready for this weekend’s event.

“I run every day and one day a week I take a longer route.”

His longest training course to date has been 16 km, while his last run was completed on Thursday.

Young says he’s not offended when people comment on his age and how active he is.

“I have no doubt that running keeps me in good physical and mental health,” he said. “I’m of that age that when you’re awake something always hurts somewhere anyway.”

His ultimate goal, he added, is to simply make it to the starting line.

“I figure if I make it there, the rest will just take care of itself.”

To sponsor Bill Young’s half marathon run contact the Greenwood Centre for Living History by calling 450-458-5396. Donations will be accepted after tomorrow’s event.