2017 Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride

On Sunday, September 24, 2017, streets will be abuzz with finely dressed gentlefolk upon their classic and vintage style motorcycles, united in their support of men’s health as The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride is held for the sixth time.

The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride was founded in 2012 by Sydneysider Mark Hawwa after being inspired by a photo of Mad Men’s Don Draper astride a classic bike, wearing his finest suit.

It was decided a themed ride would be a great way to combat the often-negative stereotype of men on motorcycles, while connecting niche motorcycle communities together. That first ride brought together over 2500 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.

This year, over 70,000 riders in over 600 cities across 90 countries are tipped to take part in the event.

Moreover, The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride has doubled its commitment to aid the funding of men's mental health programs after a volunteer event host took his own life. In partnership with the Movember Foundation, The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride will commit 80 per cent of total funds raised to prostate cancer research, with the remainder to go towards men's mental health programs.

"It's an important year for the Distinguished Gentleman's Ride. What was already a personal event for many has taken on a new meaning, especially after losing one of our own," said Hawwa.

"We ride this year for the men of the world who struggle with mental health and for the families and individuals whose lives are affected by prostate cancer."

The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride has raised over $US8 million for charity since 2013. This year, they aim to raise $US5 million and are encouraging their fellow Australians to take a moment to consider their fathers, brothers and sons.

"The past five years have seen The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride grow far more than I ever could have imagined – not only in its reach and the number of participants of the ride itself, but in people that have made that decision to get themselves checked," continued Hawwa.

"Working with the Movember Foundation has allowed us to target key concerns in men’s health, helping us change the lives of men and helping them to live longer and happier. None of this would be made possible if not for the support and unity of Triumph Motorcycles and Zenith Watches.

"The collective passion of all these brilliant organisations is the fuel to The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride, empowering all classic and custom motorcycle riders to bond together and put on the most dashing charity event this world has ever seen."

To do your part, visit www.gentlemansride.com and sponsor a rider near you.