Don’t be surprised if you see ‘distinguished gentlemen’ riding bikes
More than 200 formally dressed riders will vroom on their classic and vintage machines, on Delhi roads, to raise awareness about men’s health. The ride will take place as part of the international event that happens in 90 countries, on September 25, every year.
This Sunday, expect to see men and women, dressed in their best, riding classic bikes for a cause. As part of The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR) 2016, the riders will sport formals — Western or Indian, to be in sync with the theme of this international event.
Every year, DGR brings together over 50,000 well dressed bikers, in 500 cities and 90 countries, for the cause of men’s health. The aim this year is to raise awareness and $5m for prostate cancer research and suicide prevention programs.
The excitement among riders and volunteers is high, as DGR India has special approval from the core organising team in Australia, to allow riders to wear Indian formals. “It is a platform to show the world how rich our Indian culture is, hence Indian ethnic dresses are specially approved from DGR team Australia,” says Tarique Afaque, founder, Royal Mavericks (bikers group) adding, “In the past, we have seen riders sporting lehenga, dhoti kurta and even pathani suits.”
“It is great that Delhi hosts such a glamorous motoring event where we not only raise awareness for health but also get to see some amazing vintage beauties roll on the streets,” says Tejas Lakhani, who participated last year as well.
The fourth edition of DGR in India will also focus on responsible and safe riding. Afaque says, “This year riders will be joining us from nearby cities like Chandigarh, Agra, Rohtak, Ambala and Meerut. We’ve also initiated DGR ride in Siliguri, Bangalore and Dehradun besides Lucknow and Agra, where it was conducted the last year too.”
Some participants have already done their shopping whereas others are indecisive of what to wear. “My husband and 8-year-old son will dress up identically, in beige trousers and white shirts with bows,” says 35-year-old advertising professional Shermishtha Mathur, who will be riding as a pillion and is still in doubt about which dress to opt for. “But I want to be part of this experience since my husband and son kept talking about it after the ride last year,” she adds.
Catch It Live
What: The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride 2016
Where: From 4 Points Sheraton Hotel, NH 8 to Grande Crowne Plaza, Greater Noida
When: September 25
Timings: 5am onwards
Nearest Metro Station: Delhi Aerocity on Airport Express Line
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