Distinguished Gentleman's Ride to cruise through Kelowna today

Don’t be alarmed if you see some very well-dressed motorcycle riders cruising around Kelowna in a few hours.

They’re part of the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR), which will take place in 31 Canadian communities, including Kelowna, today.

The annual event raises awareness and funds for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health, which is done in partnership with the Movember Foundation.

According to organizers, DGR participants will dress up in “their most dapper attire” and proudly ride around the city on their classic and vintage motorcycles.

In Kelowna, riders will gather at M&M Performance on McCurdy Place at 9 am before departing on their bikes at 10 am. At noon, they’ll return to M&M Performance for the Classic Motorcycle DGR Show & Party.

"By joining forces with DGR, we can broaden our reach and engage with even more people who are passionate about men's health," says Dan Cooper, director of innovation at Movember.

"Together, we aim to challenge the stigma surrounding men's mental health and encourage men to take proactive steps in looking after their well-being.”

Organizers say the DGR and Movember collaboration aligns with their shared goal of breaking down barriers that prevent men from seeking help and support when they need it the most.

Mark Hawwa, founder and director of the DGR, says their goal in 2024 is to reach 1,000 cities around the world.

“Our community is one that comes together, despite borders and oceans, riding side by side to raise increasingly critical funds and awareness for men’s mental health and prostate cancer,” he said.

“DGR 2024 is the year that we celebrate our fellow gentlefolk around the world that we ride alongside, united by a passion and driven by the cause.”

For more information on the DGR, click this link.