Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride 2014 New Delhi
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| Nikhil & Max...Dapper through and through! Photo: Christelle Weinberg |
Three years ago a bunch of motorcycle enthusiasts decided to start
‘The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride’ (DGR). Being Australian, no one took them
seriously and before you knew it the idea had spread across 150 cities of the world.
Around the same time 'Royal Mavericks - Delhi Royal Enfield Riders' were exploring ideas beyond breakfast runs and charity rides. Its founder,
Tarique Afaque, an administrative genius and an ambitious biker got in touch
with the DGR team and in 2013 the first ever DGR ride was held in
Delhi and Chennai.
The recent ride on 28th September was held in nearly
10 Indian cities and by far the most impressive turnout was in New
Delhi. Immaculately dressed ladies and gentlemen came riding as
though they were going to meet..........................(fill in the VIP name)
Here are some excerpts from an interview with Mr.Tarique, the man behind DGR '14-Delhi.
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| A tuxedo clad Sandeep rides his Indian Chief. Photo: Caitlin Virginia |
Delhi Biker (DB): What was different about organizing this year's DGR compared to previous year?
Tarique Afaque (TA): Last year, you see, our focus was on
getting the concept of DGR across to the public. Most people had no idea…so we
had to work hard on catching their imagination. But this year, we were more
focused on the purpose for which DGR was started. To raise funds for Prostate
Cancer Research…so our focus was donation. And out of nearly ten cities in
India, we raised the maximum amount $2572, all of which went directly into the
official DGR account in Australia.
DB: What were some of your personal highlights of the day?
TA: I was happy to have the French TV producers who are in India
to shoot a documentary on Royal Enfield join us. Its always nice to have the
story stay beyond the day through such videos…I was thrilled to have Diljit
Titus Sir and the Heritage Motoring Club of India as our guests of honor…that
was a huge boost to our morale. Not to mention all the other groups like
Yezdi-Jawa and so many others…so many others…
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| "Distinguished Enough?" asks Bobbee Singh. Photo: Christelle Weinsberg |
DB: What about the vibe, the atmosphere?
TA: I think people were really excited this time…it was a very
unique experience for them. I know some people were getting their dress and
suit ready a month in advance…and you can see that in the photos…it was really
something special. Many bikers were unrecognizable because they were out of
their riding jackets and jeans and in their three-piece suit.
DB: Anything that didn’t work?
TA: Well, for every event we organize we give it our best shot but
there is always room for improvement. But beside the practical shortfalls, I was a little disappointed about our
general mentality that says “I don’t have prostate cancer…so why should I
donate”…you know, that kind of attitude… “my breakfast, my day, me, me, me” and
not bothering about how your little effort can make a difference for many
others. And I was surprised how bikers are least concerned about their own
health…so being ignorant is one thing, but choosing to stay that way is hard to digest. What to do…this is the world we
live in…
DB: That's sad…you think there was no response in regards to
the prostate cancer issue?
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| Jimmy takes a shot at Jojo & his custom built bobber. |
TA: Yes there was...we had expert doctors give us clear and precise
information regarding prevention and check up and I think we did create
awareness among the people. I think our goal is to help men, especially
bikers, take their personal health seriously. Its logical, if you’re passionate
about motorcycling, then stay healthy and you’ll ride many years. We hear so much about breast cancer but who talks about cancer that men get?
DB: What about next year?
TA: We would love to partner with other clubs and groups and not
just make it a Royal Mavericks affair. After all, if they do find the Prostate
Cancer Cure, as promised it wont be patented and hence many will benefit. So if
the cure is for all, then all must work towards the cure.
DB: Your parents were there at DGR, what was their take?
TA: My parents keep nagging me about how I neglect my career and
social life to organize all these motorcycle events…but the funny thing is,
they are the first one’s to register for DGR…even last year and this year. They
get very excited about this…in fact, my mother purchased a new sari just for this
event. But my dad forgot to bring it…he he he…but yes, they loved it…and of
course, my father who is a Urdu Poet enjoyed sharing his ‘Shayari’.
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| Hot suits means everyone is eager to start riding. |
DB: Besides you, who all were involved and how long did it take
you to organize DGR '14?
TA: It’s a LOT of work…people see just the few hours from
morning to noon but we were 20 Mavericks who worked day and night for nearly 4
months…so lots of recce rides, negotiations, permissions, you know how it is…lots
of work. This isn’t Europe or Australia, we have to juggle many egos, lots of
red-tape, lot of expectations…but its worth it!
DB: Sounds like so much work, but why is it worth it?
TA: Gives me moral boost. I love seeing all these different, versatile
people mingling together…in such beautiful environment. You know, I like to see
people connect. I enjoy doing it. Yes, its hard work, but you work to enjoy,
no?
DB: Any future rides other than DGR that you’re planning?
TA: All I can say is we’re organizing a Skiing Ride in winter
and that’s all I can say for now. But currently am excited about the upcoming Motorcycle Travellers
Meet that’s happening on 18th & 19th October. So we’re
busy with that for now…lots happening bhai! Stay posted!
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