Centenarian Cycles on Daily Basis

At 103 years young, there is no stopping Long Beach resident Octavio Orduno from taking his beloved red and white tricycle for a spin around the block.

Orduno, who is the oldest living resident of this city 20 miles south of Los Angeles, has been riding bicycles since he bought his first pair of wheels when he was 11 years old. Now at 103, he just can't stop.

Orduno, who was born and raised on the central coast of California, recently had to trade in his bicycle for a tricycle due to growing concerns for his safety. His wife of almost 60 years, Alicia Orduno, was responsible for the switch.

[Octavio Orduno, 103 Years Old]:
"My three wheels – well, they kind of embarrass me because they're three wheels and I should be riding a two-wheel."

However, an extra wheel has not stopped Orduno from riding daily to the park near his house to relax with the local skateboarders, or from purchasing a sack of oranges from the farmer's market. In fact, he is proud to be the only senior citizen in the area riding on three wheels.

[Octavio Orduno, 103 Years Old]:
"There are a lot of old guys on scooters and other wheels, but there's none on a three-wheel like me."

Many of Orduno's neighbors are familiar with his daily routine and often stop to chat with him as they jog or walk by him.

[Elayne Haven, Long Beach Resident]:
"I'm inspired by him. I have a beach cruiser as well and I would love to ride side by side with him one day. I hope that he keeps going for many more years."

Many believe he is a role model for healthy living and the endurance of the human spirit.

[Nina Torres, Long Beach Resident]:
Because everyone always thinks, when they hit a certain age, 'I can't do this, I can't do that.' And then you look at him and you say: 'Yeah, I can. What am I complaining about?' I love it, every time I see him."

Although Orduno turned 103 on Monday, March 14, he will be celebrating his birthday with his children and grand-children on Sunday, March 20.