Café Racers Dress Up For a Top Cause

This Sunday hundreds of well dressed motorcyclists will take part in the Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride, a worldwide event raising funds for prostate cancer research. The event originated in Perth from a small group of motorcyclists. “Somebody five years ago posted a photo and said… I wished l looked this good on my motorbike, we should do a ride in suits,” said Rex Havoc, a member of the Perth Café Racers. The first worldwide ride saw 2500 Café Racers, Bobbers and Brat style bikes over 64 countries, which has risen to 300,000 riders over 400 countries with ambassadors such as David Beckham taking part. John Lagdon rode last year after being diagnosed with prostate cancer two years ago and said the ride provided amazing support. “People I hadn’t seen for years supported me, they sent money from the UK, all over the place,” says John. This year Perth riders have raised $44,000, adding to more than $330,000 nationally. Last year’s ride started at Hillary’s boat Harbour and ended in Fremantle. “People came out of the restaurants and were asking what it was about, when we said it was about raising money for prostate cancer research, people were donating,” says Rex. Bruce Sharman, owner of Bygone Spares and Restorations, says the turnout is amazing. “Arriving and seeing the amount of people left me gobsmacked.” “This year I’ll be sporting a waist coat, jacket, bow tie and I might even get my moustache waxed.” Riders interested can register at the Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride website where information about the event will be posted.