As a last minute thing I decided to sign up for this year's DGR which was to take place for the first time in Cardiff. Someone managed to get an advance order in for the weather as it couldn't have been better enabling some 120 machines to take in the trip around central Cardiff and then out to Penarth to meet up on the promenade.The run commenced at 11am from the meeting place in Cardiff's Civic Centre and then out onto Corbett Road, then Cathays Terrace. Up around Roath Park towards Llanishen then past the tax offices to join Caerphilly Road, over the flyover and down through Cardiff centre past the castle. Out via Cowbridge Road, Sloper Road, down Penarth Road and into Penarth. Through the town centre and finishing at the prom. Not a huge amount of miles, so easy enough to do on a Sunday morning.
More than 30,000 smartly-dressed gentlefolk in over 400 cities straddled the saddles of their café racers, bobbers, scramblers and other marvellous custom motorcycles to raise awareness and help fund the cure for prostate cancer. In grand style, dapper gents and elegant ladies shall ride their steeds spreading merriment and joy throughout their communities whilst raising awareness for men’s health.In 2013, over 11,000 participants in 145 cities around the world raised over $277,000 for prostate cancer research.In 2014, over 20,000 participants in 257 cities in 58 countries raised over $1.5 million (USD) for prostate cancer research. Our fundraising goal for 2015 is $3 million (USD).
The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride was founded in 2012 in Sydney Australia, inspired by a photo of Mad Men’s Don Draper astride a classic bike and 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, whilst connecting niche motorcycle communities together. That first ride brought together over 2,500 riders across 64 cities. The success of the event encouraged the founder to consider how it could be used to support a worthy cause. And the rest, as they say, is eloquently attired history.
The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride is a celebration of the art of being dapper and the style of classic custom motorcycles. What does that mean, you ask?Think: Monocles, jaunty trimmed moustaches, silk vests, crisp shirts and tailored suits.Ride: Café Racers, Bobbers, Classics, Flat Trackers, Scramblers and quirky, undefinable two-wheeled machines.Do: Bring your finest manners, neatest beards and a sense of fun and adventure.Pay: Nothing to ride (entry is free); but please consider helping our charities by getting your friends and family to sponsor your involvement
