Poker Run

SML POKER Run

DATE: April 1, 2020

TO: All Tom Maynard Memorial Poker Run Participants and SMLBA Members

FROM: SMLBA Board of Directors

Due to the seriousness and uncertainty of the COVID-19, the 2020 Tom Maynard Memorial Poker Run that is scheduled for May 15-16, 2020 at Smith Mountain Lake is postponed to a later date. This is a difficult decision for us to make, but the health and welfare of all Poker Run participants is most important. Executive Order Number 55 that was issued by the Governor on March 30, 2020 restricts travel and outdoor activities, and the number of individuals who may participate in private and public in-person gatherings. We have no way of knowing when this pandemic may end, or when the Governor will lift the current restrictions.

Again, we are sorry for those who have made plans, but safety and social distancing is the most important factor at this time. We hope to re-schedule the event at a later date. If/when we are able to re-schedule the event; the date will be posted on the SMLBA website.

For those who currently have registered boats, sponsorships, or who have registered to be a card stop, information regarding refunds will be forthcoming.

For any questions or additional information, the SMLBA e-mail address is This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Sincerely,

SMLBA Board of Directors

____________________________________________________________________________________

What is the Poker Run?

First, the poker run is a charitable fund raising event that gives players an opportunity to play “a card game” on the water. It is definitely not a race. There is a limit of 75 boats, but captains can have as many players and registered guests on board as their legal capacity allows. The boats travel to multiple card stops (up to seven) situated all over the lake to retrieve a playing card at each stop at the end, each player presents their best five cards to be eligible for several thousand dollars in cash prizes. The first player to get four aces receives $5000.00. The SMLBA has awarded this top prize numerous times. There is also a $1500.00 prize for the best hand, $500 for second best, $250 for third best, and many other cash awards for various categories such as best appearing crew and the most players on a boat. Proceeds from the event go to various lake organizations such as The Smith Mountain Lake Marine Volunteer Fire Dept.

Boats of every description are welcome. Past events have featured large cruisers, house boats, pontoon boats and even small runabouts...speed is not a factor. If a vessel is too slow or ends up under durress to cover the entire course in the five hours of the event, then they can be “spotted” a card stop and may draw those cards at the end of the run. The larger boats have an even better chance of taking home the cash for the most players on a boat.

The entry fee is $175.00 a player, with a two player minimum per vessel. The guest fee is $110.00. Guests may participate in the entire weekend's festivities, but are not eligible to play the game. All players and guests are treated to a dinner and entertainment on Friday night, and for the actual poker run at Mariners Landing where many participants will be staying. Upon their return to Mariners Saturday afternoon, players, guests, volunteers and sponsors will join together for a beer garden, followed by a dinner and music.

Who was, Tom Maynard, Captain Easy, Article