“When you’re 80, will you still dare to chase your dreams?”
SoCalYEA hosted a screening and discussion of Go Grandriders, a true story of 17 seniors who rode motorcycles around Taiwan in 13 days—inviting audiences to rethink age, dreams, and life’s possibilities.
Dreaming Bravely, Riding Boldly
Kristy Chen, CEO of SoCalYEA, thanked the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce of Orange County for sponsoring the event and said Go Grandriders is a moving journey of courage, dreams, and dignity.
Despite age and illness, the seniors got on their motorcycles and set out to prove that age is not a limit and life can always begin again.
Betty Hsiao, Director of the OCAC Center in Orange County, said the film shows seniors bravely pursuing their dreams beyond age.
Mike Chen, former President of the South Coast Chinese Cultural Association, said Go Grandriders is more than a motorcycle journey—it is a powerful reminder that dreams never grow old, and passion never retires.
Breaking Limits, Crossing Barriers
After the screening, documentary producer Yi-Ying Lin joined the audience virtually. She said the greatest challenge in creating Go Grandriders was breaking society’s stereotypes about aging.
Many believed seniors should stay home and avoid risks. Yet these riders, many living with chronic illnesses, chose to overcome physical and emotional barriers to fulfill their dreams.
Lin said the project began simply as a student-recorded journey, with no expectation of becoming a full documentary.
With support from Taiwan’s film grant program, it was completed and went on to earn international recognition and spark a powerful social response.
Shared Reflections, Renewed Light
David Liu, a board member of the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce of Orange County, said the film deeply inspired him.
He believes that when people pursue a shared goal and support one another, they can create strength beyond themselves and reach new heights in life.
The post-screening discussion was warm and lively. Many were moved by the seniors’ courage and perseverance, and began to rethink age and dreams.
Perhaps the most touching part of Go Grandriders is not the finish line, but the heart that refuses to surrender to time. Age may rise, but dreams need not stop; the body may grow old, but the heart can still shine.
Every departure declares dignity. Every mile proves, “I still can.”
