I didn't think that I was going to be able to make this one, but a late change of plan meant that I was there after all, and what a great day it was. I can't remember the last time I saw so many people grinning!
A Poker Run takes the best bit of powerboat racing, the mass start, and repeats it in a series of relatively short sections. Obviously there's a certain amount of rivalry to be the first to each finish (especially if you're Mark Pascoe!), but there's no winner, so there are no bad attitudes -- just lots of fun.
At the end of each run you collect a playing card in a sealed envelope; at the end of the day you should have five of them. During the party in the evening, the envelopes are opened with some ceremony and displayed as a poker hand for all to see. The best hand wins a cash prize. It's totally random, and bears no relevance to how fast you were on the water.
Drivers Dry Berthing laid on a fantastic package, including danish pastries and coffee at the briefing, lunch at the Folly Inn, a pig roast in the evening and a storming party with a live band in the evening. They also sorted out all the logistics to make sure everything ran like clockwork. Even the rumours of a camera helicopter turned out to be true!
There are a load of pictures here:
http://www.boatmad.com/forum/showthr...9875#post79875
As you can see, it was mainly speedboats, but Gill at Drivers is really keen to get more RIBs involved. The next Poker Run is being planned for mid August, so watch this space.
John
. In the evening there will be a rather good do at Drivers Wharf, with good food (hog roast),drinks, prize giving, and even a live band 
,a great time to catch up with old frinds,and meeting new. This event should be top of any ribsters to do list!!!! so hope to see you there. 
