Road Town, Tortola, BVI – April 28, 2010 – For those who enjoy an intense nautical poker game, Leverick Bay Resort on Virgin Gorda will host the 9th Annual Poker Run on Sunday, May 30, 2010. This exciting and highly anticipated event will raise awareness and funds for local charity and non-profit organizations in the British Virgin Islands.
Although characterized by speed boat competitors, the event is open to all types of boats. If you can sail or paddle the entire route, then you are as eligible to win as any of the other competitors. Like any other poker game, only the cards matter. Those who do not have a boat, but still wish to participate, can sign up to join one of the boats that will be competing in the event. All boats must be registered at Leverick Bay Resort & Marina between eight and ten o’clock. You can register online for the event at www.pokerrunbvi.com. Costumes and immigration procedures will take place at the resort.
This year there will be a definite start point marked by two “SOL Petroleum” marker buoys, next to two 47ft Catamarans. The Cats will be approx 2,300 yards apart, between which all boats must travel thru them. The race will start at 11:00 am sharp, signaled by firing a white flare after the security message is broadcasted on channel 16.
The first stop in the Poker Run course will be Cyber Café in Trellis Bay, where contestants pick their first card; then Jolly Roger Inn on West End, Tortola; Pirates on Norman Island; Cooper Island Beach Club; Fisher’s Cove in Spanish Town; and finally back to Leverick Bay Resort for the finish line. Each player can use the best five out of six cards.
The best hand wins a Grand Prize based on total entries of up to $15,000 cash prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. There will also be special prizes for 4th, 5th and 6th place contestants, as well as awards for most original boat, best boat performance, best dressed crew, and best dressed female. More than one hand can be played by boat and per person to increase your chances of winning.
There will be several activities prior to the event such as a traditional BBQ dinner, live music, a Mocco Jumbie Show, and a Volleyball tournament at the SandBox. This event is like no other in the Caribbean. Start practicing your fierce poker face and come join in for a day full of camaraderie and fun. For more information please visit www.pokerrunbvi.com or call 284-495-7421.
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Note to Editors:
Caption for attached photographs: Images from the 2009 Poker Run