Birthday thrill ride at 97 for Munster resident
It was about ticking off a long-held dream of riding at speed on the open road.
A 97-year-old Munster resident celebrated her birthday in unforgettable style – by riding at speed on the back of a motorbike along the highway.
Joey Anderson’s wish came true last Saturday when she was surprised at the Margate Pier by a large group of bikers from the Coasters Motorcycle Club, along with friends from the Munster Bowling Club.
A delighted Joey said she never expected the surprise. “How very exciting! I never expected this – not this!”
Dressed for the occasion in a red and white biker jacket, bright yellow bandana, and helmet, she looked right at home among the bikers.
Her good friend and bowls partner, Nigel Eeles, had previously taken Joey for a short spin after a game about six months ago.
“While we were riding, Joey told me I was going too slowly and that I should ‘put foot’. It was rather stressful as I felt responsible for such a valued member of the club,” Nigel said. “I thought my job was done, but then she said her dream was to go at top speed on the highway.”
After a short photo session, Joey joined Nigel on his bike as the group headed along the highway to the Munster Bowling Club, where her birthday celebrations continued with cake and sparklers.
After the ride, Joey said she loved every minute and couldn’t believe her dream had come true. “I felt like I was flying,” she laughed, adding that the experience brought back memories of her younger days as a biker.
Joey turned 97 on April 13.
The nonagenarian is remarkable for her age; she is an active member of the bowling club and still drives.
She lived in Pretoria and Namibia before moving to the South Coast in 1991.
Her secret to good health and happiness? “Walking and whiskey,” she quipped.
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