The Distinguished Gentleman’s Drive, an annual on-road motoring fundraising event featuring classic cars, is ready to roll through the streets of Gqeberha.
Enthusiasts in more than 60 countries, many dressed in their finest suits, are set to participate in the international drive for men’s health, which is taking place in multiple cities and towns on Sunday, September 28.
Founded in 2021, the event features classic cars built 40 years ago or earlier.
This will be the second year of the Gqeberha leg of the drive — in 2024, 110 owners and their prized cars participated in the city.
Organiser Riaan Hanekom said the aim was to increase the number to 120 this time around.
“The event is significant because it is a chance to show off historic vintage South African vehicles,” he said.
He said there were a lot of men who had been affected by prostate cancer and the event was a way for them to make a difference.
“It is something they can do for the sake of the greater good.
“We also want the public to come and view the cars as they drive by.
“We will release the exact route at a later stage, but it would be great for everyone to join us on the day,” Hanekom said.
The drive will start at Eastern Cape Motors, on the corner of the William Moffett Expressway and Willow Road, and end at the Slipperfields Events and Conference Venue on the R102 in Witteklip.
At the end of the drive, the public is invited to enjoy a fun, vintage market, free of charge.
Gary Dodds, 65, of Walmer participated in last year’s event with his 1967 Mercedes-Benz 230S, also known as a fintail, and enjoyed it so much he committed to driving again this year.
“Despite the weather at last year’s event, the excitement was contagious.
“It was amazing to see the classic and vintage cars — there was such a big variety. Some cars were even 100 years and older.
“It feels good to be a part of something big. It is great for car enthusiasts to come together for fundraising for men’s health,” Dodds said.
Proceeds from the event will be donated to charity partner Movember, which will invest the funds into vital research and programmes for prostate cancer and men’s mental health.
The international event has been a hit in SA over the years, with drivers participating in Johannesburg, Cape Town, George, East London, Knysna and Klerksdorp, among other centres.
All vehicles participating in the Distinguished Gentleman’s Drive must be built before December 31 1985.
For more information and to register, visit www.gentlemansdrive.com.
The Herald
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.