Despite the rain, a group of 75 – damp, yet dapper – motorcyclists took to the roads yesterday morning, supporting Guernsey’s part in the global fundraising ride.
The event sees vintage-styled riders raise money and awareness for prostate cancer and men’s mental health.
‘I did one in London a couple of years ago which was really cool,’ said the impeccably dressed Paul Saunders.
‘It’s a nice chance to dress up, look smart and get people talking about men’s mental health, which is so important.’
Guernsey ride organiser Simone Donazzan – an Italian, oozing style – explained that the ride was part of the Movember movement, which encourages men to grow moustaches in November in aid of prostate cancer research.
Sixty-seven bikes, some with passengers, set-off from Guernsey Pearl at 11am.
Void of their usual protective gear, the easy riders cruised at a comfortable speed of about 25mph around the north coast, ending up by the Model Yacht Pond in Town. Mr Donazzan said about £2,600 had been raised. He hoped more funds would roll in throughout this week.
‘This ride is happening in over 160 cities all over the world today,’ he said.
‘It started back in Sydney in 2012. It’s a fun and important event. People don’t usually suit-up much anymore. It shows a different reality of bikers – we’re not always leather jackets and grubby faces, we’re good people. And we’re combining something that we love doing with something good. These are charities that are close to my heart. A friend of mine committed suicide a few years ago and a member of my family had prostate cancer – he’s still alive, luckily. And that’s why I want to do what I can to support.’
Mr Donazzan said it was still not too late to donate at www.gentlemansride.com.
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