“It Was Fantastic” – 89-Year-Old Cyclist Embraces E-Biking Thrills With Daughter, Riding for Life a Month Before His Birthday

Defying age limitations with joyous pedals, a senior from New Zealand has found solace in saddle rides. Colin Williamson, a soon-to-be 89-year-old from Te Awamutu, is redefining conventional norms with cycling adventures, depicting his relentless zest for life. But the brave man was not alone, as his playful tour was brightened by his daughter’s passionate company. 

But how did the senior thrill-seeker absorb such cycling prowess? Evidently, fueled by his unquenchable thirst for exploration, Williamson’s adventurous odysseys commenced merely a few years ago. However, he triumphed with persistence in countless ordeals of biking, planning his recent feat along the Otago Rail Trail. Adding to the intrigue, it was nothing short of exceptional for most elderly cyclists! 

Cycling addict rewrites life in elderly years

Encapsulating his remarkable tale of resilience, Williamson has always enjoyed cycling rides, with his active plans highlighting his true passion for two-wheeler pursuits. While proving that age is just a number, the iconic rider steered his way through the challenging routes of the Otago Rail Trail, adding another chapter to his audacious drives. 

Read More: Japan cycling team bags three gold medals at the Asiad

As he embarked on this high-spirited cycling venture last weekend, Williamson was joined by his daughter, Jane Bailey. Remarkably, the senior rider was not very seasoned in pedaling tours, initiating his love for bike rides only 4 years ago. But that could not deter his efforts, with the bonded duo aiming for a three-day excursion trip. 

While navigating over 200,000 km around Te Awamutu and beyond, Williamson gained an understanding of e-bikes, which he bought within a day after friendly suggestions. Traversing a staggering distance of around 163 km before returning home, his latest escapade with Bailey helped the cycling enthusiast gain more confidence in long-term rides. 

Unparalleled enthusiasm exhibited through versatile routes

Admirably, Williamson’s adventurous spirit has never been confined to just cycling, from farming in Maihiihi to owning an orchard in Kerikeri. About nine years ago, open-heart surgery spurred the cyclist to entangle himself on a path of health and vitality. Heeding his doctor’s advice post-surgery, he even started walking to maintain fitness. 

Subsequently, the persistent senior also owned a coffee business in Cambridge and a bed and breakfast in New Plymouth, savoring life’s diverse flavors. With his daily cycling trips spanning up to 100km per week, Williamson mentioned threading through scenic routes while prioritizing safety protocols. 

He also shared words of gratitude for considerate drivers who granted ample space while maintaining strategic choices on routes with minimal traffic. Remembering his chilling pedals along the Otago region, Williamson narrated, “It was fantastic”, while adding, “I loved the scenery and the trails and everything.” 

With his upcoming birthday within a month marking the cycling icon’s 89 years of experience, Colin Williamson has become an inspiration to embrace life’s vibrancy. Disregarding his elderly barriers, the brave-hearted man is now planning for future ventures, urging all to saddle up and pedal into the unknown, but with cautious approaches. 

Watch This Story: “It’s better to stop in a good way” – Belgian cycling icon Greg Van Avermaet bids farewell after a golden career in rearview