Canyon Lake resident Joan Ke recently celebrated the remarkable achievement of walking 1,096 consecutive days, the equivalent of three years.
Ke’s journey began on December 16, 2021. Since then, she has logged an impressive 10,330 miles and 20,698,656 steps, going through 10 pairs of tennis shoes along the way.
Ke, 72, walks a minimum of seven miles per day, enduring a spectrum of temperatures ranging from a chilly 32 degrees to a scorching 109 degrees. In the face of inclement weather, Ke clocks her steps by navigating inside local stores such as Walmart and Costco.
Ke’s commitment to walking continued even during vacations, including trips to Jerusalem, Canada, Japan, and aboard a cruise ship.
Ke has walked every street in Canyon Lake, noting that Inspiration Point, Appaloosa Court, Yosemite Place, and San Joaquin Drive were the most challenging streets. Twice a week, Ke ventures beyond Canyon Lake to explore Audie Murphy and Canyon Hills.
Over the past three years, Ke has experienced her fair share of adventures whild walking. She has been attacked by geese, bitten by a dog, discovered a $20 bill, and even found an e-bike hidden in the bushes.
Ke, a former marathon runner, turned to walking when she could no longer run. Ke said she enjoys walking for its independence, noting that it’s a solo activity that doesn’t require reliance on others, unlike the dynamics of team sports.
Reflecting on her journey, Ke shared that there were never any days that she wanted to give up. “I love walking,” she said. “Walking has been the greatest thing in my life since moving to Canyon Lake. I’ve met so many wonderful people on my walks.”
In addition to walking Ke plays pickleball five times a week. Ke said she has no plans to stop her daily walks and is determined to stay committed to the activity that brings her so much joy.
