Coming out of a big powerboat weekend it’s hard to keep it straight, who went where, who did what, and where are they going next weekend. Well I think it’s a big weekend because I cant seem to keep it straight. Three Poker Runs and a OPA Race and all the things I missed or don’t know about. Beginning with Alexandria Bay, Poker Runs America 2013 Alexandria Bay Hall of Fame Poker Run, Alexandria Bay, NY June 14-15 – Poker Runs America had great weather and about 25 boats ran around the spectacular views of A-Bay. Todd Taylor of Poker Runs America told me they really lucked out on the weather and had a great event.
A little further to the south in the heart of New York City Billy Frenz thankfully brought back the New York City Poker Run NYCPR13_jAlbum. With 24 boats in attendance the city skyline flashed by as these high powered boaters brought the roar back to the Hudson and showed the local spectators’ that powerboating is still alive and well in and around NYC.
The biggest recreational event of the weekend by far was the 160 or so boats that congregated in Biloxi Mississippi for the 5th annual River Bay Poker Run. Over the previous four years these guys have raised a little over 30K for the local Humane Society and they are going to just keep on going. Receiving tremendous support from the local business they had 13 cards stops over a 100 mile course with numerous waterfront restaurant, bars, and casinos to stop at. The 6th Annual “Run with the Dogs” Poker Run is now on the PBN must do list. River Bay Poker Run
Finally up in East Tawas Michigan, OPA OPA Racing | Results brought 26 Race Boats to this supportive city just north of Saginaw and had a wonderful race in the protected waters. Every inch of grass on the shore was lined with fans and Ron Polli reported to me that the Street Party hosted by the town was over the top. Ron said there is no other event in the country where the local town is as supportive and thankful to have a boat race. The municipal marina has a sheet pile retaining wall that provides a spectator venue similar to Key West and the fans love it.
All of these events around the country are a good sign that the lifestyle of Powerboating goes on. This previous weekend brought us the Texas Outlaw Challenge and the Atlantic City Race OPA Racing | Atlantic City Race Information and Poker Run Home Page
Texas Outlaw Challenge
Powerboat On!
