Mayo riders gear up for Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride in support of men’s health
More than 40 Mayo motorcyclists will join a global charity event at Westport House, raising funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health.
Dapper riders are set to take to the roads of Westport in style this month as the town joins a worldwide movement in support of men’s health.
The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR), the world’s largest motorcycling charity event, will return on Sunday, May 17, 2026, with more than 40 Mayo bike enthusiasts will gather at Westport House for a special fundraising ride.
Participants, dressed in their finest attire and riding classic or vintage-style motorcycles, will meet at Gracy’s in the Westport House Country Estate at 12 noon. The ride will depart at 1pm and return at approximately 4pm.
The Westport event forms part of a global initiative that will see more than 125,000 riders in over 1,100 cities across 110 countries take to the roads on the same day.
This year marks the 15th edition of the event, which has raised more than $60 million worldwide since it was founded in Sydney in 2012 by Mark Hawwa.
“Reaching our 15th edition is a powerful reminder of what a passionate global community can achieve together,” said Mark Hawwa. “This is a life-changing community, with riders in more than 1,100 cities, DGR proves that motorcycles have the potential to create extraordinary impact.”
Funds raised through the event support vital programmes delivered by Movember, focusing on prostate cancer research, men’s mental health, and suicide prevention.
Organisers say the annual ride is about much more than motorcycles. It is also about breaking down barriers around men’s health and encouraging open conversations on issues that are too often left unspoken.
Prostate cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer deaths among men globally, while men continue to face disproportionately high rates of suicide. By combining a passion for motorcycling with fundraising and awareness, the DGR has become a powerful force for change.
Westport’s participation highlights the strong community spirit in Mayo, with local riders joining a global network united by style, camaraderie and a shared commitment to improving men’s health.
Registration for the ride is open to anyone with a classic or vintage-style motorcycle. All participants must register in advance through the official Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride website.
For more information or to register, visit the official Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride website.