On Sunday September 25th 2016, streets will be abuzz with finely dressed gentlefolk upon their classic and vintage style motorcycles, united in their support of men’s health. ‘The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride’, the world’s greatest motorcycling charity event, shines a light upon the bikes, fashion and ideals of a bygone era, all for a good cause.
The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride was founded in 2012 by Mark Hawwa in Sydney, Australia after being inspired by a photo of Mad Men’s Don Draper astride a classic bike, wearing his best suit.
It was decided a themed ride would be a great way to combat the often-negative stereotype of men on motorcycles, whilst connecting niche motorcycle communities together. That first ride brought together over 2,500 riders across 64 cities, with the success of the event encouraging Mark to consider how it could be used to support a worthy cause. The rest, as they say, is eloquently attired history:
– In 2013, over 11,000 participants in 145 cities around the world raised over $277k for prostate cancer research.
– In 2014, over 20,000 participants in 257 cities in 58 countries raised over $1.5M (USD) for prostate cancer research.
– In 2015, over 37,000 participants in 410 cities in 79 countries raised over $2.3M (USD) for prostate cancer research.
This year, 50,000 riders in over 500 cities across 90 countries will take part in their local event. Our fundraising goal is $5M (USD), which will be invested in both local and global prostate cancer research and suicide prevention programs by our social charity partner, the Movember Foundation.
The Movember Foundation, the world’s largest men’s health organisation, is committed to helping men live happier, healthier, longer lives. Since 2003, millions have joined the men’s health movement, raising $715m (USD) and funding over 1000 projects focusing on prostate cancer, testicular cancer and suicide prevention. Their vision is to create a world where men are socially connected, comfortable talking about the big things in life and able to take action early when health issues arrive.
Triumph Motorcycles, the iconic British motorcycle manufacturer offers its continuing support in making sure The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride’s wheels keep spinning. The most outstanding fundraisers globally will be awarded with a modern classic motorcycle as a thank you for their sup- port.
With a longstanding heritage in supporting charity and motoring events, Swiss luxury watchmakers Zenith Watches will make sure riders arrive in style and on time by providing truly remarkable time- pieces for top fundraisers globally.
The rewards continue for the top 100 fundraisers globally, with each receiving an exclusive handcrafted Hedon Helmet featuring a unique design developed for the 2016 Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride.
Now in it’s fourth year as a charity event, The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride is at the forefront of encouraging men to take responsibility for their health, get checked and seek support in time of need. The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride and the Movember Foundation both share this common goal of giving more life to our fathers, sons, brothers and friends.
