Pelotonia Scholar Excels in Med School, Research, and Ironman

“Anything is possible.” That mantra drives Matthew Marquardt, a third-year medical student at The Ohio State University College of Medicine, dedicated cancer researcher and Pelotonia Scholar, four-time Pelotonia Rider, and professional Ironman triathlete. 

Matthew serves as peloton team captain of the BSR–Spin Doctors under the Team Buckeye super peloton and will ride the 100-mile route during Ride Weekend 2025. As a four-year Rider and High Roller, he has made a significant commitment to innovative cancer research at the OSUCCC – James, raising nearly $20,000 during his years of Pelotonia participation. 

“I ride in Pelotonia because I want to be a part of creating a cancer-free world. This mission is deeply personal to me,” says Matthew, who honors loved ones affected by cancer by writing their initials on his bike — a symbolic reminder of why he rides. 

A 2021 graduate of Princeton University with a degree in chemistry (magna cum laude) and a minor in entrepreneurship, Matthew hopes to become a head and neck cancer surgeon. At the OSUCCC – James, he is involved in three projects that combine medical science, innovation and human performance. His first project, mentored by Carmen Quatman, MD, PhD, in the Department of Orthopaedics, explores the surgeon-athlete connection, examining how principles from sports science can improve surgical performance. His second project, in collaboration with Kyle VanKoevering, MD, in the Department of Otolaryngology and the Medical Modeling, Materials and Manufacturing (M4) Lab, uses 3D printing to enhance surgical outcomes for head and neck cancer patients. 

“Matthew blends the science and art of medicine with engineering and technology — the same mindset he applies to training and racing,” Dr. VanKoevering says. 

His third project, with David E. Cohn, MD, a gynecologic oncologist who serves as chief operating officer and chief medical officer at the James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, explores the use of continuous glucose monitoring during chemotherapy to identify metabolic changes.

“He’s one of the most committed and motivated individuals I’ve ever worked with,” Dr. Cohn says. 

Matthew’s passion for performance extends far beyond the lab. After discovering triathlon in 2021, he quickly rose through the ranks. He won the overall age-group title at the 2022 IRONMAN World Championship in Kona and turned professional in 2023. That year, he earned three podium finishes and the fastest swim split at the IRONMAN World Championship in Nice. In 2024, he continued to excel with three more podiums and a bike course record at IRONMAN Lake Placid — securing a fourth place finish in the IRONMAN Pro Series. In April 2025, he clocked a sub eight-hour performance at IRONMAN Texas, solidifying his top-30 position in the global PTO World Rankings. 

“Triathlon is too hard of a sport to do only by yourself — and so is battling cancer,” he says. “There is incredible power in tackling challenges with others and having a purpose beyond oneself that can positively impact lives.” 

As he trains, researches and races, Matthew’s path remains clear: pursue purpose, push limits and help end cancer — one mile, one study and one ride at a time.