Suit Up: The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride Returns This Weekend
Leather jackets or vests, metal accessories, and a pair of shades are often associated with motorcyclists riding their big bikes. We've probably seen such an image in Wild Hogs (2007) or Born to Ride (1991), after all. But the annual Distinguished Gentleman's Ride gives it a different twist.
The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride (DGR), the world's largest motorcycling charity event, is back for another year, uniting classic and vintage motorcycle enthusiasts around the globe to don their finest attire and rev their engines for a cause. Happening on May 19, this edition promises to be bigger and more impactful than ever, with over 90,000 riders in more than 900 cities across 100 countries expected to participate in an effort to raise awareness and funds for men's health issues. In the Philippines, 19 cities are officially participating in DGR, including Manila, Tagaytay, Batangas, Bacolod, Cebu, Dumaguete, Zamboanga, Baguio, and more.
Distinguished Gentleman's Ride 2021 in Manila
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History of the Distinguished Gentleman's Ride
The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride was founded in 2012 in Sydney, Australia, by Mark Hawwa, inspired by an image of Don Draper from the TV show Mad Men astride a classic bike in his finest suit.
This vision of elegance and style on two wheels has since evolved into a global movement. The mission is to shine a light on the bikes, fashion, and ideals of a bygone era, all while supporting a noble cause. The event aims to challenge the stereotypical image of motorcyclists as rough and unruly, showing the world that they are also well-respected members of society.
This year marks the 11th year of sponsorship with Triumph Motorcycles and the 10th official year of the event in Manila. The Philippines has consistently shown strong support for the DGR, with 19 cities participating this year. Last year, Manila alone had 1,883 registered riders, and the number is expected to increase. The goal for this year is to raise at least $ 10,000, contributing to the over AUD 40 million already invested by Movember in prostate cancer research and men’s mental health initiatives since 2016.
Prostate cancer remains the second most common cancer in men globally, with 1.4 million men diagnosed each year. Movember's initiatives, funded by DGR, have enabled significant advancements in biomedical research, leading to new tests and treatments, particularly for men with high-risk diseases. The impact of prostate cancer on lives is substantial, with over 300,000 men dying from the disease each year. One in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in their life.
Mental health and suicide prevention are also critical focuses of the Movember Foundation. On average, globally, one man dies by suicide every minute, amounting to half a million men each year. Suicide is the leading cause of death for men aged 20-39, with three out of four suicides being male. The funds raised by the DGR community are invested in building evidence for and scaling community-based men’s health programs, aiming to create a world where men understand mental health, manage their well-being, and feel comfortable seeking support.
Distinguished Gentleman's Ride 2018
The Litas Manila in DGR 2018
How to Join
Participants are encouraged to sign up at the Gentleman's Ride website. Donations are welcome through online channels. You can also use the hashtags #gentlemansride #dgr2024 #movember #ridedapper to join this effort in raising awareness for prostate cancer and men's mental health.
To follow the theme, riders should dress in dapper outfits. This includes formal suits, tailored vests, suspenders, bow ties, pocket squares, tweeds, leather shoes or boots, and even 50s-style dresses for women. The motorcycles themselves also adhere to a style guide, with permissible types including Cafe Racers, Classic and Modern Classic Bikes, Choppers, Brat-style Bikes, Bobbers, and more.
Safety is paramount for the DGR, and participants are required to follow local road rules, wear appropriate personal protective equipment, and ensure their motorcycles are in good working condition. The event adopts international best practice standards for risk management to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.
The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride is on Sunday, May 19, 2024. Nineteen cities in the Philippines are participating. Register through the Gentleman's Ride website.
