Local bikers don their fanciest duds to take part in Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride
By Lethbridge Herald on May 20, 2025.
Joe Manio
Lethbridge Herald
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
On Sunday, a group of seven motorcycle enthusiasts dressed in their Sunday best joined other riders worldwide for the 2025 Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR); a global motorcycle event raising funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health programs on behalf of the Movember Foundation.
“This is my first one in Lethbridge, but it wasn’t the first one in Lethbridge,” says local DGR organizer Andrew Wilcox, who participated in previous DGB rides before moving to Lethbridge a year ago. “I think there were five previously, but it took a break due to COVID. We’re just trying to bring it back and grow it again. The goal is to just get out there, have a good time, a little bit of camaraderie and a little bit of visual fun for the people that see us pass by.”
Riders are encouraged to dress in a classic, refined style, often incorporating suits, ties, vests, and other accessories, adding a touch of elegance to the event. The DGR showcases a love for classic and vintage-style motorcycles, reflecting a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for timeless designs. However, to foster more inclusivity, some local DGR events have shown some flexibility with the classic and vintage-style bikes requirement.
What the dapper “Magnificent Seven” lacked in quantity this year, they made up for in quality. Lethbridge Mayor Blaine Hyggen, dressed in a classic black and white suit and bowtie, was among the seven. Upon hearing about the event a few weeks ago, Hyggen was initially concerned about the vintage motorcycle requirement.
“It’s a little bit different over in Europe, in that I thought I had to have a much more nostalgic bike,” said Hyggen. “But over here in Canada, they opened up a little bit so I was able to bring a little bit newer motorcycle.”
First-time Lethbridge DGB participant Dan Yagos had participated in two previous DGR events in Missoula Montana, before COVID threw a wrench in everything.
“It’s a real worthy cause and it’s a lot of fun,” says Yagos. “It’s something different with the clothes and looking dapper. It’s always a good thing.”
In 2024, 88 riders participated in the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride in Edmonton, Alberta. This event raised $16,950. In 2024, 101 riders participated in the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride in Calgary. The event raised $23,910.
Lethbridge has participated in the annual ride since 2012, but the exact number of times is difficult to determine, because ride details are not hosted publicly, to ensure all participants are registered; and as part of safety protocols.
Moving forward, Wilcox and the other six riders hope more riders will participate in 2026.
“I want to see it go bigger, now that we have people actually in charge,” says first-time DGR participant Freeman Ng. “ We can do a lot more to expand this and to let the public know what we are doing for men’s health.”
The first DGR was held in 2012 in Sydney, Australia. It was founded by Mark Hawwa, who aimed to challenge the stereotype of motorcycle riders while connecting motorcycle enthusiasts. The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride happens every year on May 18.
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This group of bikers raising awareness about mental health are missing the point- the excessive noise from many of these bikes is causing emotional and mental stress for many Lethbridge residents having to live with the constant roar. And the City and police are reticent to deal with it.