The Jacksonville River Rally Poker Run was another huge success for 2015. With over $16,900. raised for Camp Amigo event organizer Bill Pyburn, Sr. was very happy. Grinning ear to ear at the awards ceremony he reminded me of how relaxed and fun this event is and will continue to be. With about 50 boats in attendance the kids at Camp Amigo who struggle with recovery from severe burns will benefit from the generosity of the performance powerboating community. Chris Bradly was first to ante up a $5,000 contribution which was quickly matched by Bill Pyburn Jr and followed by Kelly Sills who gave $6,900. Those generous contributions plus the other money raised will bring some fun and comfort to some deserving children.
The Team from PowerBoatNation had a great time. Thanks to Chris and Angela Bradley we had a beautiful 426 Skater with Mercury Racing 1350 power to enjoy the run. Friday’s raft up was a blast and brought a great group together. We were able to run upfront at the start of the run and followed right behind Bill Pyburn Jr’s. 388 Skater with Goodwin Competition Power right up to the first card stop.
The entire event was a great time and Powerboat Nation was everywhere. Miss PowerBoat Nation Brittany was co-captain on her 42 Outer-limits and ran all over on the PBN cooler racing everyone who would dare challenge her.
The Jacksonville Poker Run remains one of my all time favorite runs as the St. John River and local hospitality of the Pyburn family make it something very special. Bill Jr. opened his home to everyone and once again John Woodruff along with his great gal Nancy pulled out all the stops – giving fun rides on the Windship Long Ranger Helicopter, landing on the special Helo Pad extension from Bill’s dock walk, just making spectacular landings again and again.
We had such a great time and a special thanks goes out to all the great supporters of Powerboat Nation who wore the brand proudly and our team on the ground: Brittany, my daughter Lauren Nicole, and PBN Brand Ambassador Shane Mcfall.
Check out our choice pictures below and view ALL THE PHOTOS HERE!
