The Reflections of a Distinguished Gentleman

Ross Stone

Ross Stone DGR 2019

On Sunday, May 23rd, 2021, over 120,000 distinguished gentlefolk in 750 cities worldwide will don their finest attire, ready their engines, and press their tweed before sitting astride their classic and vintage styled motorcycles to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer and men's mental health. We wanted to talk to some of these dapper Kiwis who support Movember by participating in DGR.

First up, we have Napier local Ross Stone, who talks to us about the impact his grandfathers love of bikes had on him from a young age and why the Distinguished Gentleman's Ride means so much to him.

What bike are you riding this year and how long have you owned it?

I will be riding a Bonneville T100 this year if my shoulder is OK. I have only owned this bike for 3 weeks.

How many years have you participated in DGR?

I have done 2 rides so far, both in Tauranga, NZ

How did you first come across DGR?

I originally heard about DGR from a friend who I ride with. 

Why did you decide to get involved / What does DGR mean to you?

Prostate cancer took my Grandfather at the age of 70, I ride for him as he used to ride and taught me a lot about motorcycles and engines.

What’s your favourite part of the day?

I really love the noise and spectacle of 100+ bikes cruising through the Urban areas of the city. It’s great to see so many spectators along the course all waving at us. I also love the camaraderie of everybody before the start and at the finish, it's great to chat with so many like-minded people all there for the same purpose.

What is your most memorable moment from a DGR ride?

The moment that really stands out is seeing all the people standing on an overbridge all waving as we passed underneath them.

Published May 21 2021

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Movember supports all individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community, including those who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual. Health disparities exist, with LGBTQIA+ individuals experiencing higher rates of mental health issues and discrimination, often exacerbated by stigma in healthcare. We advocate for the right to self-identify, protection from discrimination, inclusive education, and rights-affirming healthcare, ensuring everyone can lead a healthy, dignified life.

Movember acknowledge the many and varied experiences of people navigating their health and wellbeing, those who support them and those who came before us whose stories, struggles and strength have shaped what we know. We recognise those who have generously shared their knowledge and wisdom with us and honour those we have lost too soon. Their knowledge, insight and expertise are essential to improving the design, delivery and evaluation of the work that we do and their experiences remind us why this work matters.

Movember Foundation is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization.