OSHKOSH – The city’s best-dressed men are taking to the streets once again.
Around 150 riders will hit the road aboard vintage and classic motorcycles in their best attire for the annual Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride at Becket’s May 18.
Why the Oshkosh motorcycle ride raises money for men’s health
It’s the seventh year in succession Oshkosh is hosting one of the worldwide charity rides, which has attracted more than 500,000 riders and raised more than $60 million for men’s health programs such as prostate cancer research and mental health awareness.
“Seeing 150 riders take over Oshkosh for such an important cause is something special, and the fact that our community continues to rank among the top rides in the country says a lot about Oshkosh,” said Discover Oshkosh Executive Director Amy Albright.
How Becket’s owner Kris Larson organizes the Oshkosh ride
Organized locally by Becket’s owner Kris Larson, the event is similar to a traditional walkathon where every motorcycle rider has their own page and seeks donations.
Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride schedule at Becket’s on May 18
The ride starts outside Becket’s at 10 a.m. with a classic and vintage motorcycle showcase before riders depart around 11:30 a.m. for the undisclosed route.
The ride then returns to Becket’s about an hour later for a complimentary brunch for registered riders.
“It’s incredible to see this event grow and reach it’s capacity so quickly,” Larson said. “It’s just absolutely awesome and great to see.”
Donations can be made at gentlemansride.com/events/united-states/oshkosh-wi or gentlemansride.com/fundraiser/KrisLarson399305.
How the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride started and grew worldwide
Initially founded in Sydney, Australia, the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride has seen more than 500,000 motorbike riders from 121 countries participate in the global event over the last 14 years.
It was inspired by a photo from drama television series “Mad Men,” with Don Draper wearing his finished suit while riding a classic motorcycle.
Contact Justin Marville at jmarville@gannett.com and follow him on X (formerly Twitter) at @justinmarville.
This article originally appeared on Oshkosh Northwestern: What to know about Oshkosh’s Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride May 18
Reporting by Justin Marville, Oshkosh Northwestern / Oshkosh Northwestern
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
