Inaugural Distinguished Gentleman’s Drive curtailed by lockdowns

The first annual Distinguished Gentleman’s Drive has been run across 55 countries this past weekend, raising more than $275,000 – despite lockdowns in some cities.

Born from the famous Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride – a charity event in which participants dress in fine clothes and ride classically-styled motorcycles – the Drive takes the idea further by including car enthusiasts from across the world, with the aim of raising money and awareness for men’s health issues.

But despite months of planning, events in Victoria and New South Wales were forced to postpone due to government restrictions.

“This event is about uniting for a great cause,” Sydneysider and founder Mark Hawwa said prior to the weekend.

“I can not think of a better way to unite all facets of the classic car community,” Hawwa said, “from the drivers of concourse vehicles to those who enjoy longer drives and don’t mind a stone chip.”

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Above: Queenslanders enjoy a drive, credit Grant Williams. Top: A classic Ferrari, credit Amy Shore Photography.

Over the past decade, the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride has raised more than $43 million for charity Movember, with Hawwa expecting the Drive to grow to be even bigger.

“We have all lost friends and loved ones close to us, we have all experienced mental health struggles in one form or another. This is our way of using our passion to help the men and their families around us.”

Those wishing to donate or register their interest for future events can visit The Distinguished Gentleman's Drive website by clicking here.