Book your place on May’s DGR
Time to dress smart with Covid-friendly rideouts
Dapper folks on classic and retro bikes are being invited to take part in 2021’s special 10th Anniversary Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride – set for its new springtime date of Sunday, May 23.
This year marks the first decade of the ‘DGR’, a series of charity rides spread across the globe, which blend dressing-up in gentlemanly tweeds and brogues with massed riding of ‘old school’ bikes to raise money for men’s health.
Conceived to counter the traditional stereotype of men on motorcycles and also highlight men’s mental health and, via Movember, prostate cancer, the DGR was founded in Sydney in 2012 by Australian Mark Hawwa with the first event involving 2500 riders across 64 cities.
Ten years on, the annual event has proved a big success with happenings across the world, hundreds of thousands of smartlydressed participants and over $27million US (£20m) raised. And this year, despite restrictions but with the added attraction of a custom bike giveaway by long-time sponsors Triumph, organisers hope to boost that total to over $30m. Interested participants can now register online with over 40 events so far planned in the UK alone. In areas where group rides may not be possible, solo rides and digital connections are being encouraged. In addition, the 2021 event boasts its biggest range of prizes yet, with four new bikes on offer from Triumph, including a special, one-off custom bike and 50 special Hedon helmets and Belstaff clothing for the top fundraisers.
“We may not be able to celebrate together,” said Hawwa. “But it sure won’t stop us from connecting with our community of dapper riders.” Find your nearest DGR ride at www.gentlemansride.com.