Real Stories – Why We Ride

Posted 7 years ago

This year, the Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride will see more than 70,000 riders gathered in over 600 cities across 90 countries, dressed in their best, to raise awareness and funds for prostate cancer research and suicide prevention programs led by the Movember Foundation, the official charity beneficiary.

We are proud to be raising funds for the Movember Foundation, the only global charity raising funds and awareness solely for men’s health. Since 2003, millions have joined the men’s health movement, raising funds for more than 1,200 projects focusing on prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. Their vision is to have an everlasting impact on the face of men’s health, and by 2030, the Foundation aims to reduce the number of men dying prematurely by 25%.

The Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride is made possible by the tens of thousands of distinguished gentlefolk who have been impacted by some of the major health crisis men face today that the Foundation raises funds and awareness for.  

Adam Sanzo and Paul Dutra are two friends who have lived with mental health issues, and also share a love of motorcycles. Riding introduced both men to a community of like minded people who share what they are going through, and most importantly, ask if they can be of help when they see others going through a tough time.

“I think it’s safe to say that a few years ago, you wouldn’t have known anything was wrong with either of us,” says Adam. “The truth is, we both suffered from anxiety and depression. But we weren’t the type of guys to open to any friends or family. We wanted to protect them, and in turn protect ourselves from being judged. Being part of DGR has made us both more comfortable talking and accepting our individual mental health struggles. The motorcycle community is incredibly supportive, and we both have real friends who are always available if we ever need to talk. So, in a way, as cliché as it may sound, motorcycles have actually helped save our lives”  


Jason Hodrinksy in NYC is riding in honor of his father who was diagnosed with and survived prostate cancer will also unite with thousands of dapper men to support men’s health.

“My dad was diagnosed with prostate cancer at an early age. I was only 17 years old at the time so I didn’t really grasp the situation. Prostate cancer is in the family, and it’s something I need to be aware of, and that’s why I do DGR, and support Movember. Thankfully, my Dad had surgery and caught it early. He’s still with us, but he was lucky, not everyone beats the odds.”

With your support, the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride and the Movember Foundation can work together to tackle men’s health issues, and make an impact in the lives of men throughout the world.

Sign-up, support or donate at www.gentlemansride.com and visit Movember.com to show your support for men’s health.