Well, I say old chap, did you have your King Leers tuned into the wireless just now? Because the news is out and it’s time to dust off the dapper, give the riding boots a jolly good polish and prepare your classic chariot for a day of delights. Yes, it’s that time of year again when we are proud to announce that The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR) is set to take place, this time in over 1,000 cities around the world, on Sunday, May 18 2025. The facts of the event to date tell an incredible tale; since 2012, there have been 934 rides in 104 countries, which have raised over US$56.7 million for men’s health. But DGR is much more than the numbers, it’s about what really matters: mates, motorcycles and a massive global community, getting together to have fun, form friendships and make this crazy world of ours a truly better place.
“10 years ago we knew we needed to do more for men’s health,” says Mark Hawwa, Founder of The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride. “That’s why we partnered with the world’s largest men’s health charity, Movember. In the last 10 years, we have been proud to support men’s health on a global scale, in supporting the critical causes of prostate cancer and men’s mental health. Together with our community, we are proud to continue riding dapper for men’s health.”
And the impact has been huge, not only have millions of dollars been raised for the cause but it’s getting to all the right places. Research organisations on every continent are receiving the vital funds they need to carry out their work, programs have been developed to support veterans and first responders, pilot programs have been launched to create support networks for men living with and fighting the battle against anxiety, depression and suicide, and funds are flowing to ensure that men around the world get first class treatment for prostate cancer, no matter where they live.
All of which is possible, simply by signing up to participate in your nearest ride and raising money for all of this great work. And whether you ride a vintage, classic or modern retro machine, it really doesn’t matter. Sure, the bikes are a great part of the day, and it’s amazing to see such an eclectic mix of motorcycles rolling down the road. But what really makes it fun is everyone getting in the spirit and getting dressed up, embracing the Distinguished Gentleman’s ethos and attire, and just having a blast with a host of amazing people.
And not only do those funds you raise go to an amazing number of good causes, but the prizes on offer are as good as it gets, with brand new Triumph motorcycles at the top of the list. Triumph’s Chief Commercial Officer, Paul Stroud added: “This is Triumph’s twelfth year as the Official Motorcycle Partner for The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride, which brings riders around the world together to raise awareness and funds to support men’s mental and physical health. Every year the DGR gets bigger, reaching and involving even more men and women across the world, in a way that represents the best aspects of our global motorcycle community, giving each of us the opportunity to help our fellow gentlemen.”
The British company’s involvement has not only been good for DGR, but great for Triumph, with so many bikers in one place, the feedback from current and potential owners is invaluable. It’s also no surprise to see so many Triumphs in attendance on the day, corporations that give back and truly live the lifestyle are rightly rewarded. Another partner celebrating a decade of support in the charity motoring event is luxury helmet manufacturer, Hedon Helmets. Hedon craft uniquely designed helmets that have been made to reward the top 100 fundraisers for the last 10 years. These pieces are limited and a highly coveted memento for all dapper riders.
The buy-in by all is part of what makes the event so great, from those who simply want to donate a few dollars, to the riders who go all out, and all of the organisers and volunteers; everyone is operating from the same playbook. There’s no ego, no over-the-top corporate presence, it’s grassroots goodness on a global scale. Founder of the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride, Mark Hawwa, is keen to keep it that way, and only partners with those who share the vision. “These brands share our values of style, safety, and community, and together, we are making a lasting impact on men’s health, while creating unforgettable experiences for riders around the world.”
So, whether you’ve donned the dapper for over a decade, or you’re new to the world of truly being a DGR kind of guy or gal. It’s time to gear up, get yourself registered online, and prepare for one of the biggest and best dates on the motorcycle calendar. You can even dust off your best British slang, spiffing wheeze and all that good stuff, old chum. Sign up for your local DGR ride at gentlemansride.com.
