THE Warrington Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride is preparing to ride again on Sunday, May 19.
Riders will gather across the globe dressing dapper and riding classic and vintage-style motorcycles to raise funds and awareness for men’s mental health and prostate cancer research. The Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride (DGR) is now in its 12th year and will see rides take place in 121 countries worldwide.
Following a highly successful ride last year, the Warrington DGR will return and once again be organized by Cheshire motorcyclist, Phil Hesmondhalgh, and hosted by local Warrington motorcycle dealership, In2Moto. Last year, the ride comprised of 26 riders who managed to raise £5,595 between them for charity partner, Movember. This was an impressive amount given the limited number of riders and the fact that it was the first year a DGR ride had been organized through the town.
For 2024, the format will be similar to last year. Riders will gather at In2moto on Fennel Street, where there will be a warm welcome, refreshments, and the opportunity to mix and mingle with other riders. There will also be a brief talk about DGR, fundraising achievements and a safety briefing before heading off on the ride, which will consist of riding through Warrington town centre with a brief stop in front of the Town Hall’s impressive Golden Gates for photos. Then the riders will head off on a 20-mile scenic route through smaller towns and villages before finishing at a traditional pub for food, drinks, and photos. Riders are being encouraged to invite their family and friends to join them at the finishing point and share in the fun – and even dress dapper too!
Places on the Warrington DGR are limited, making it a smaller and more intimate event than some of the other rides. Phil Hesmondhalgh explains, “I didn’t have any experience of organising large motorcycle rides, so I wanted to keep our first year to a manageable number. However, building on last year’s success and gaining confidence from the experience, I have increased the number this year to 40 riders. This ensures a safe ride and gives participants the opportunity to chat, share their motorcycle experiences with fellow bikers and really enjoy the day, as well as raise funds for a brilliant cause.”
If you would like to get involved, there are still places available for the Warrington DGR. To register go to: gentlemansride.com/rides/england/warrington
