By Patricia Schallert –
Several of Ventura’s “golden oldies” gathered for a day of wild escapades, exploring their lively coastal community they call home. The highlight of the day was a nine-mile round-trip bike ride along the scenic Promenade, where they zipped along on their electric bikes and e-tricycles, dodging surfers, walkers, runners and children racing to the playground.
It was a beautiful autumn morning that began at Portside in the harbor and ended at the mouth of the Ventura River, also known as Surfers Point. One senior remarked, “The Ventura River is significant because its estuary is a valuable wetland habitat and ecological resource in the watershed. It’s home to numerous protected species and habitats, including 137 plants and animals.” The rider added with a laugh that several feral cats wait nearby each morning to be fed by the biking group.
The atmosphere was filled with joy, laughter and companionship, showcasing the seniors’ enthusiasm for life. Refreshments at Surfers Point paired perfectly with friendly conversation as other “oldies but goodies” arrived to join the fun. One rider said she hits the pedals every week just for the stunning coastal scenery and refreshing ocean air. Sure, there was a small hill to conquer, but someone shouted, “Put the pedal to the metal and throttle up!” and before long, the group was cruising back toward Portside.
But the fun didn’t stop there. After enjoying homemade cake and coffee, the group decided to spice things up by joining the “Witches Paddle” event at Ventura Harbor. Dressed in witch costumes, they grabbed their paddleboards and kayaks and joined a motley crew of witches, warlocks and skeletons for a day of laughter and adventure. While some were content with a spontaneous happy hour at Portside Plaza, these adventurous seniors battled wind, waves and passing boats with gusto. One spirited witch declared, “You’re never too old to have a blast like this!” as she paddled away, cackling in the wind.
The next day, another group of seasoned “oldies but goodies” dancers broke out their best Thriller moves in Ventura Harbor. The performance began with a slow, eerie build-up as the dancers crept onto the floor like zombies. Some had a little trouble getting off the ground—not from lack of skill, but from joints that had seen decades of dancing to the classics. Once they found their rhythm, though, there was no stopping them. They threw down moves that would have made Michael Jackson proud. Onlookers were amazed as these seasoned dancers brought the house down with their killer Thriller routine.
Age may have slowed them a bit, but it certainly didn’t stop them from showing how it’s done. Halloween week was packed with fun and adventure for these “oldies but goodies.” And as the week came to a close, they were already planning next year’s spooky shenanigans—starting, of course, with another nine-mile bike ride.
