2018 Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride
Words and Photos: courtesy of Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride
Sunday, 30 September, 2018, saw streets thump and heads turn to the sound of more than 112,000 classic and vintage style motorcycles rallying together for a cause - raising awareness and support of prostate cancer and men’s mental health on behalf of the Movember Foundation. Yep, it was that very special annual event that started in Australia and has gone global – The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride.
The Cause and The Goal
Close to one million men lose their lives annually from prostate cancer and suicide, so once again, The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR) called on the community to stop men dying too young, as it has for the past five years.
The rides, held in cities large and small, have already become something of an institution in some areas, as groups of dapper-dressed male and female riders, ranging from a handful to an armada, aim to raise funds and awareness for men’s health issues.
That desire to do good on two wheels – and look good doing it – has spread, with rides now held in some of the most unlikely places around the globe.
This year, DGR organisers set themselves the goal of raising US$6 million globally; an ambitious target that would be almost as much as the 2016 and 2017 DGR totals combined. If it came off, it would be the largest single-year fundraising total in the event’s history.
The Fundraising and The Ride
Within the first eight weeks of fundraising leading up to this highly-anticipated global event, registered fundraisers managed to raise US$5.8 million for vital research and support programs relating to men’s health - that’s even before the rubber hit the road for the actual ride day on 30 September.
As such, 2018 has already proven to be the greatest year in the short history of the DGR, with the highest amount raised, greatest number of participating riders at 112,600, and the most cities hosting rides globally at 648 in 101 countries.
Related competitions, where fundraisers and supporters could win prizes from DGR sponsors, ranging from a new Triumph Thruxton R to a Hedon helmet, Zenith watches and REV’IT! Clothing, closed on Sunday, 14 October, with fundraising closing on 30 October
The Founder
“On Sunday, September 30th, 112,000 people came together to change the world,” explained DGR founder Mark Hawwa. “Their passion could be felt throughout 650 cities, across 101 countries, and the $5.8M USD of funds they raised for ground-breaking prostate cancer research and male suicide prevention will be felt for years to come.
“Beyond this achievement, they showed millions of onlookers that, as riders, they don’t need to live by the traditionally negative stereotypes often perceived. From Zimbabwe, to NYC, the spectacle stopped people in their tracks, dropped jaws, grabbed the attention of camera-wielding pedestrians and the elated waves of their children, as the most dapper mix of magnificent motorcycles, and sartorial styles, rolled on by.”
The Final Sprint
While US$5.8 million was one hell of an achievement, DGR organisers were determined to meet that goal of US$6 million. That led to the formation of a last fundraising push – the Final Sprint – fuelled by the chance to win a special Ton Up Triumph Thruxton R for any registered DGR fundraiser who raised more than US$500 in a week.
The Final Sprint worked, with US$130,000 raised in a mere seven days, which along with ongoing fundraising following the 30 September ride day, saw the 2018 DGR hit its goal.
As this issue went to press, the fundraising total stood at US$6.05 million – and incredible achievement in what’s gone down as an incredible year for the DGR
The Ride Continues
While the 2018 DGR may be over, the cause goes on. To show your support, learn more about the event and get the gen on what you need to participate in 2019, visit: gentlemansride.com
