Riding Dapper for a Cause!

Michael Kenny takes part in ‘The Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride’

On Sunday September 30th, over 120,000 people over 650 cities worldwide put on their finest clothes and hopped on their vintage and classic motorcycles for the Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride. The event was established to raise funds and awareness for men’s health, specifically prostate cancer and men’s mental health.

Men’s mental health awareness is of great importance in todays society so creating or fundraising for this cause is a step towards helping people discuss this growing problem. Statistically just over three out of four suicides (76%) are by men and suicide is the biggest cause of death for men under 35 (Reference: ONS)

This event is important to not only fundraise for these important causes but connect and encourage open discussion about serious issues affecting men today.

The unique event saw participants arrive in tailored suits, silk waistcoats, crisp shirts and polished brogues for what promised to be a decidedly dapper affair.

One such partaker Michael Kenny BSc (Hons), MEI, ESOS Lead Assessor, DEC Assessor, from Kenegree Ltd took part and has already raised £920 for the noble cause. The day was a great success and Michael comments:-

‘On Sunday the 30th of September, I donned my finest attire with my fellow men and women across the globe to join the fight with The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride in Oxford to raise awareness for prostate cancer and men’s mental health. We rode classic bikes. I pressed my tweed and polished my boots, in the hope that I would receive a few donations for this meaningful cause and help me reach my goal.

Prostate cancer affects more men than any other cancer, taking the lives of close to 307,000 men each year. A number surpassed by 500,000 men dying from suicide. That’s 807,000 men every year. This is a number that must change.

I bought a bike specifically to take part in the DGR, having photographed the Oxford ride for the past two years. It was in a sad state. I’ve spent the last 6 months getting my little cafe racer on the road. It might not be the prettiest cafe racer - it’s a rat bike - but that is a ‘thing’ you know! I’m proud to have taken part.’

Want to take part in the next Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride or would like to donate?
Visit: www.gentlemansride.com for more information

Published in Valve User Magazine Issue 47