Strathmore Poker Run returns for 17th year

Andrea Roberts
TimesIntern

 

The distinct roar of motorcycles will sound throughout the town yet again, as the annual Strathmore Poker Run returns for their 17th year.
The Poker Run travels to five small towns around Southern Alberta to raise money for the Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta.
“Our total right now since we have been with kids cancer, is about $198, 997 which is really remarkable for a small group,” said Sandy Scobie, the event’s treasurer. “We are a very an enthusiastic group that love to ride of course and raise money for kids cancer at the same time.”
Last year the group raised $27,468 towards the foundation. Cancer fundraising is also a cause that is close to the groups’ heart as the Poker Run’s founder Matt Janzen passed away from cancer in 2002 and was affected by the kids he met in the hospital.
The committee came together when he passed away and decided to start contributing funds to the Kids Cancer Care Foundation, an organization which is dedicated to finding a cure for childhood cancers and supporting the families while they go through an emotional time.
The fundraiser runs over three days, June 24-26, opening with the head shave, where roughly six volunteers will have their hair shaved off to start the fundraising and sponsorship collection. Scobie said the public is welcome to watch the volunteers lose their locks or donate to the cause.
The poker run begins the following day when bikers will set off from Strathmore stopping along the way to receive a playing card before returning back to town. Once all the cards have been obtained, the remainder of the event is focused on celebrating. A dinner, camping and live entertainment by the band Free Beer will await participants and anyone else who wants to join the party. On Sunday there will be a family fun-day when the public is invited to see some of the participants showcase their skills on their motorcycles.
“It is like a rodeo except we do it with motorcycles,’ said Scobie. “So there is a bunch of games that we play so on Sunday kids are welcome to come out.”
She encourages people to take part in the cause, whether it be to come out and support the effort or to take part in the ride on their own motorbike, it doesn’t even have to be a Harley.
Event tickets can be purchased at the head shave on June 24 or at the registration for the ride at Original Joes at 9:30 a.m. on June 25. For more information contact Sandy Scobie at 403-901-4021.