In just ten days, the engines will roar and the gates of Barberstown Castle will swing open to one of Ireland’s most striking, heartfelt events of the year. On Sunday 18th May, the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride returns to Kildare—not just as a vintage motorcycle spectacle, but as a statement of solidarity, style, and support for men’s health.
This isn’t just another charity ride.
It’s a movement in motion—and right now, it needs you.
Every spring, thousands of motorcyclists across 120 countries come together in tailored suits, silk ties, and polished boots to ride for a singular cause: to change the face of men’s health.
In Kildare, that ride will start from the timeless grounds of Barberstown Castle, a place where history meets horsepower. Organiser Austin O’Callaghan, alongside a growing team of passionate volunteers including the ever-present Barbara Stone, is leading a campaign that blends style with serious purpose.
Over 250 riders are expected to join the Kildare convoy this year, as part of a global ride spanning 1,000+ cities—all synchronised on the same day, all raising vital funds for Movember, the global men’s health charity tackling prostate cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention.
Let’s make this real:
And in Ireland, the statistics are equally sobering.
“In 2023 alone, 232 men died by suicide in this country,” says organiser Austin O’Callaghan.
“That’s almost four and a half men every single week. Suicide is the leading cause of death in men aged 15 to 29 – more than road traffic accidents, more than any other cause. We’ve made great strides nationally in tackling deaths on our roads. It’s time we showed the same urgency when it comes to men’s mental health.”
The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride doesn’t just raise money—it opens conversations. It reminds us that masculinity isn’t silence. It’s showing up. It’s riding out. It’s putting style and spirit into action.
This year’s ride is more than just a Sunday event—it’s a weekend of celebration and meaning:
Saturday 17th May – Motorcycle & Scooter Showcase
Hosted on the castle grounds with Cool & Trendy Customs, this open-air display brings together some of the finest and rarest two-wheeled machines in Ireland. Open to the public, family-friendly, and free to attend—expect craftsmanship, character, and community.
Sunday 18th May – The Ride
A morning roll-out from Barberstown Castle through Straffan, Clane, Naas and the Kildare countryside. A loop full of connection, waves from locals, and the unmistakable feeling of purpose on every mile.
Movember “Talk Mo” Phone Booth
Back by popular demand, this vintage-inspired installation invites riders and guests to step inside and speak their truth—about grief, triumph, mental health, or hope. It’s private, it’s powerful, and it’s part of changing the culture of silence.
If you’re riding on Sunday 18th, you must register in advance.
There is an upper limit on registered riders, so we strongly encourage everyone planning to attend to sign up as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
👉 Register here now: www.gentlemansride.com/rides/ireland/kildare
This year’s Kildare ride brings serious rewards to match the cause.
🌍 Global Prize:
All registered riders and donors (over €20) are entered to win a specially commissioned Mash TT 400 Café Racer, complete with front and rear paddock stands and a matching helmet. The draw takes place on Monday 2nd June 2025.
🇮🇪 Local Prizes:
We’re also proud to recognise standout riders in our own community thanks to the support of some incredible local sponsors:
🏆 Prizes for Best Dressed, Best Bike & More – proudly sponsored by:
These businesses have backed this event not just with gifts, but with genuine support for the mission behind it.
Right now is the moment to act.
📌 Haven’t registered yet? Sign up here.
📌 Know a rider? Donate €20 and support their mission.
📌 Can’t ride? Share, attend, cheer, or volunteer—every bit counts.
📌 Want to help? Email austinocallaghan@barberstowncastle.ie
We’ve always stood for stories that matter—and this ride is one of them. It’s about brotherhood, community, and the quiet power of people who care. It’s about the moments that change a day, or a life. We stand with Austin, with Amanda, the Barberstown Castle team and with every rider who chooses to suit up and show up for someone else. It is a truly special day. The energy is a surreal experience as is the roar of all the bikes coming back into Barberstown Castle. It is a magical day for a worthy cause.
On May 18th, Barberstown Castle becomes more than a venue. It becomes a place where courage, community, and purpose converge—where chrome meets compassion, and every mile ridden helps break the silence around men’s health.
We’ll see you there.
Shane
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