South Dakota, a state known for its great faces and great places, is home to a heartwarming story of friendship that transcends age barriers. In the community of Sanford Health’s Good Samaritan Society St. Martin Village, 96-year-old Ed McLaughlin and 78-year-old James Stone have forged a special bond over their shared love of cycling. What started as a chance encounter of seeing Stone riding his e-bike around the village led McLaughlin to join in, getting himself a trike to accompany Stone on their daily rides.
Despite their age difference, the two men have defied stereotypes and embraced the joy of cycling together, covering over 2,000 miles in the past two years. Their morning routine includes a six-mile ride, often venturing beyond the familiar paths of St. Martin Village to explore longer trails like the Mickelson trail, where they embarked on a memorable 20-mile journey to Deadwood.
McLaughlin and Stone’s friendship extends beyond cycling, with McLaughlin maintaining an active social calendar that includes activities like yoga and swimming, while Stone enjoys being a spectator. Their camaraderie and shared adventures have not only enriched their lives but also serve as an inspiration to others, proving that age should never be a barrier to pursuing one’s passions.
Despite facing various weather conditions, from snow to sunshine, the duo remains undeterred, with Stone recalling instances of McLaughlin coming to his aid when stuck in the snow. Their resilience and determination to continue cycling together exemplify the spirit of companionship and resilience that knows no bounds.
As they navigate through life’s twists and turns on their trusty bikes, McLaughlin and Stone offer a simple yet profound message to those contemplating taking up cycling: it’s never too late or too challenging to embark on a new adventure. With Stone’s lighthearted advice that as long as you can move your knees, you’re good to go, and McLaughlin’s encouragement to give it a try, the pair embodies the spirit of embracing life’s opportunities at any age.
Through their shared experiences and unwavering friendship, Ed McLaughlin and James Stone stand as a testament to the power of connection and the joy that comes from pursuing common interests. Their story serves as a reminder that age is indeed just a number when it comes to forming meaningful relationships and exploring the world on two wheels.
