GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - Motorcycle riders all across the world and right here in North Central Florida gathered to ride for a good cause.
Motorcycle riders in Gainesville participated in the “Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride” to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health.
“Have a nice, fun day with our friends, with some classic vintage motorcycles while looking very dapper as we do it,” shared rider Faren Healey.
According to officials who run the worldwide organization, more than 120,000 riders in more than 1,000 cities are taking part in this ride.
“The idea is that you get dressed up a little bit, and I ride old BMWs, so I’ve got my BMW tie on,” said rider Frank Curtis.
Since 2012, 50 million dollars has been raised for men’s mental health. This year, riders participating in Gainesville raised more than $2,000.
“So it’s on a scale that you just can’t do by yourself. Just on a scale that you can’t do even in one state,” Curtis shared.
According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, but if caught early, it can be treated successfully, which is why riders say it’s important to continue talking about it. And when it comes to mental health, they say communication is key.
“Men are stoic and don’t want to talk about such things very much, so it’s nice to bring it out in the air and not have any judgment,” Curtis said.
Riders like Curtis say improving overall mental health and helping men establish better social connections can reduce the risk of suicide, and even women are joining in to raise awareness.
“We’re in a different day and age than we used to be where men are taught to hide all their issues, be the strong, independent person, be the protector of the family,” Healey shared. “And yes, those things may all still be true, but there has to be a little bit more awareness in their health as well as women’s health.”
Event organizers hope to have more riders join them for their ride around Gainesville next year.
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