Motorcycle riders will rev their engines through the streets of Newmarket for the second annual Distinguished Gentleman's Ride on May 19.
The international ride unites classic and vintage-styled motorcycle riders from all over the world to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men's mental health.
"Acceptance of mental health issues is something that in the past was difficult to accept," said Ryan Dibisch, one of the organizers. "I think that view has changed over the years, much for the better. I think with continued awareness, it will continue to change."
The ride started in Australia and has raised more than US $45 million since 2012. About 500,000 riders in 121 countries have participated. The local ride returns for a second year. Sheila Stewart, Dibisch, Yass Motamedi, and David Bibby are organizing it.
According to the Canadian Men's Health Foundation, about one million men suffer from major depression in Canada each year. Men tend not to use available mental health services, as 30 per cent of people who use mental health services are men.
"I'm dedicating it to my son, and I know the other members have their reasons for doing it," said Stewart. "Everybody that rides usually has somebody that is affected by cancer or mental health. When it comes to mental health, it is such an epidemic almost. It is very important for everyone to do their part and raise awareness."
According to the Canadian Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among Canadian men, excluding non-melanoma skin cancers. It is the third leading cause of death from cancer in men in Canada.
"Even with prostate cancer, if caught early enough, you'll be fine; if you leave it too long, you won't end up so well," said Stewart. "It is scary."
On average, 71 Canadian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer every day, and on average, 13 Canadian men will die from prostate cancer every day.
The group aims to raise $20,000 this year with 100 riders in attendance. To date, they have generated $6,650, and 46 riders have registered.
"There is a lot of grassroots and word of mouth that happens in other cities that have developed and started it," said Bibby. "Being in our second year, we're growing and getting the word out a little bit more. That part of understanding what we are and what we're doing; we're still fairly new in Newmarket."
Riders will meet at NewMakeIt, at 621 Timothy St., at 10:30 a.m. They will be part of a group travelling 33 kilometres around town.
Riders participating in the event are encouraged to dress up in business attire rather than motorcycle jackets and gear.
"There are a lot of riders in York Region and the surrounding communities," said Dibisch. "I think it really is more about letting them know this ride exists, getting them out, and making them aware of it. I think this ride has a lot of room to grow. Last year, we raised close to $12,000."
The ride will end at Ground Burger Bar at 323 Doug Duncan Dr. A display of classic motorcycles will be available to view.
If you have a vintage or classic-style bike, you can sign up online to participate in the Distinguished Gentleman's Ride. If you want to support this cause but don't ride, you can donate online.
