Special report by Stu McDonald

Non-stop action at the Alexandria Bay Poker Run in the heart of the 1000 Islands.
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On June 23, when gas prices reached record-highs in up-state New York, entries for the Poker Runs America Alexandria Bay 1000 Islands Season Opener Poker Run also set a new record, as more than 15,000 boating enthusiasts lined the shores of the mighty St. Lawrence River to get a glimpse of these exotic boats, all in pursuit of the best poker hand. Presented by Mercury Racing, the Alexandria Bay Poker Run is one of the hottest tickets of the poker run tour. Nestled among the scenic 1000 Islands, the community is undoubtedly the perfect playground to showcase an unbelievable fleet of performance boats. Excellent cruising and isolated anchorages abound, while visitors can take in the sights at the Boldt and Senger Castles, or cruise past Millionaire's Row that's lined with opulent summer homes reflecting an era gone by. First-rate accommodations, exciting nightlife, and friendly full-service marinas also make this region the perfect paradise for the whole family. On this power-weekend, local residents were out in full force to welcome the participants. Each rig was guided quickly and safely to the town docks and by late afternoon, the slips were filled and the crowds admired the armada of performance with their stunning graphics, awesome power and commanding presence. But what made the event extra special was the family-owned Edgewood Resort, the host hotel for the event that provided nothing but first-class service and accommodations. Every poker runner was greeted immediately with a warm, friendly welcome from owner Janine Ridley, making all the guests feel like part of her family. Founded in 1886 and the oldest continuously operated resort in northern New York State, the Edgewood Resort features 160 rooms that spans 75 acres along the St. Lawrence River. From its excellent accommodations to the exciting Las Vegas-style shows and famous Scuttlebutt Sports Bar, this haven is the perfect retreat to get away from it all. The Alexandria Bay Chamber of Commerce also made great efforts to ensure this year's run was a success. In addition to their valuable assistance with the planning of the event, they were instrumental with Friday evening's welcome party held at “The Top of The Bay.” The outside deck on the upper level provided the perfect setting with excellent views of the myriad of boats, breath taking scenery and picture-perfect sunset. We would like to extend our thanks to Suzanne Keeler, owner of Vans Marine in Alexandria Bay and a member of the Alexandria Bay Chamber of Commerce, for all her help before and during the event. Additionally, Brent Sweet, also a member of the Alexandria Bay Chamber of Commerce and local entrepreneur, lent a helping hand and was an essential part of the event. But the run couldn't have gone as smooth as it did without the excellent assistance of Don Mills. Don was an integral part of the run and his expertise of the region ensured drivers were guided through the course safely and accurately. Don is no stranger to our poker runs and has been helping us out extensively at this event, as well as the annual 1000 Islands Poker Run in August, over the years. At first light Saturday morning, poker runners awoke to the rich aroma of breakfast, which was being prepared by Janine’s 80-year-old mother at the Edgewood Resort. Alexandria Bay is renown for its beauty and history, but it's also acclaimed for Janine’s mom’s cooking. Anyone who has ever dined at the Edgewood Resort will certainly attest to this. Following breakfast was the mandatory drivers meeting. There seemed to be more police and members of the coast guard than drivers, but they were there to help – on and off the water. Their assistance and in-depth knowledge of this very busy waterway is always invaluable. With Card 1 handed out, participants headed down to the slips to prepare for the run. The excitement at a poker run is always turned up a notch when the engines are ignited. After the loud cheers from the crowd, the power pack disembarked from the slips, and headed out to open water lead by the pace boats, which included the Poker Runs America 47' Fountain, and Rejean and Jennifer Doucet's 45' Sonic. Also leading the pack was Rick Merola, riding in a Donzi. Rick was also taking a break from his business, Aquamania, a local marina that caters to recreational boaters in the area. At the drop of the green flag on the pace boat, the hammers were pushed and the group headed east, past Boldt Castle, to Cape Vincent for Card 2. Then, it was just a matter of lengthy blast to Card 3 and lunch in Clayton, New York. The local fireboat, complete with hoses spraying, welcomed the fleet at the town docks where lunch was served at O’Brien’s Restaurant, a popular eating-place located a few short steps from the docks. The lunch stop gave the participants the opportunity to relax in the sun, stroll along the streets of Clayton or visit the exciting Antique Boat Museum. After the relaxing break from the water, the fuel tanks were full and it was time for the long run to Ogdensburg for Card 4. While enroute, the local marine unit and coast guard did an excellent job of leading the boats through the speed restricted areas. At every poker run, safety is always an essence and the utmost respect for speed zones and local boaters is always adhered to. And since every waterway has restrictions, the assistance of the local police is always appreciated. Upon the arrival at Ogdensburg, our volunteers were at the docks ready to hand out the Card 4, before heading off for the final leg of the run to Alexandria Bay. A poker run takes a great deal of organizing and this event couldn't have been as successful as it was without our instrumental team of volunteers. The final card stop was at The Dock On The Bay and for the second consecutive year, owner Paul Coleman opened up his establishment as the card pick-up and drop-off. He also supplied food and snacks for the whole group, who after a long day on the water were ready for a cool, refreshing beverage. Remember, at a Poker Runs America event no alcohol is allowed until the run is over and the boats are tied up for the night. After enjoying the hot sunshine and cold drinks, it was time to leave the dock and head back to the Edgewood Resort for the Awards ceremony. Following an excellent dinner, Poker Runs America's Emcee, Dave Kirkland, took center stage to reveal the cards and award several special accolades. A new award this year is the Best-Dressed Crew and while there were many ideal candidates at this event, the award was presented to Burt Thompson and his crew “Team Undertaker.” The Best Graphics award went to Charles LePage for his excellent graphics on his 42’ Fountain, while the Most Exotic Engine compartment went to local boater Bill Tomlinson for his turbine-powered Skater, My Way. Then came the moment everyone was waiting for, the announcement on the winners. In first place was Jennifer and Rejean Doucet with three Kings and two Queens. The second best card hand was held by Marc and Micheline Gendron with three 9s, a 10, and a jack, while third place went to John Landry with a pair of Aces, an 8, 7 and a 2. Poker Runs America would like to thank all of the people who helped us over this memorable weekend and our sponsors who make the event possible.

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