Simeon Gipson Bikes to the National Senior Games

At 77, cyclist Simeon Gipson, who is half Cherokee and half Choctaw, is preparing to embark on a bicycle journey of more than 1,000 miles from Tahlequah, Oklahoma to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Once there, he plans to compete in the National Senior Games.

The thousands of miles Gipson has covered over the years started when he was nearing 70 with a last-ditch attempt to improve his declining health. He’s one of many Native elders and others that embark on epic journeys and inspire the rest of us along the way. Listen to his May interview on Native America Calling.

NICOA featured Simeon in a 2022 video about elder wellness, where he spoke about participating in the National Senior Games and how his love of bicycling got him back on track after experiencing health issues. He encourages everyone to get outside, find a hobby and exercise.