Annual Poker Run

The 2021 Poker Run broke all participation records! What makes this event so popular? Is it the potential of winning “the big hand” and therefore “big money?” Is it a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon touring the lake with family and friends? Is it the opportunity to meet the people who are standing at the end of their pier, waving their welcomes and perhaps even handing out treats? Is it the late afternoon gathering at Dublin Sports Bar to compare stories with fellow players? Is it all of the above? Whatever the reason, it continues to be one of NSTLRA’s biggest events of the summer. For those who have been “Host Docks,” it’s the fun of seeing all these happy boaters, laughter and smiles galore, one after another snuggling up to the end of your pier for quick introductions (“Oh, I didn’t know you lived here!” and “Where is your cottage from here?”). And, then it’s hearing the excitement when the cards are drawn. Here’s how it works. Participants start heading by boat toward at the Peplow dock near the Lakota Boat Landing on North Twin anytime between 1:00 and 2:30 PM. You pay a per card fee of $10, receive your game cards and receive a map of the host docks. Then you’re on your way. Each host dock will have a red flag, making it easier to find as you cruise the lakes. Fellow boaters are always happy to offer directions and often you just “follow the crowd”. At 5:00, participants gather at Dublin Sports Bar either by land or sea for camaraderie, shopping for NSTLRA merchandise, enjoying food and/or refreshments, and trying their chances in the 50/50 raffle. After all cards have been collected, the winners are announced and prize money is distributed. All types of watercraft are welcome. You’ll have just as much fun as a couple as with a large group. There is no speed here. No race to the finish. But the 2022 Poker Run will be exhilarating just the same.