From Day One, when we officially introduced the birth of our American Poker Runs Association (APRA), both the boat builders and I were fully aware of the obstacles in our path. Despite the reality that we have spent almost two decades organizing and running safe, fun-filled poker run events.

At the time, our critics suggested we "fuggedabout" life jackets. Few self-respecting Southern-based power boaters would even consider wearing a life jacket or PFD. It was just too hot. Besides, the inland water was calm. Life jackets or PFDs were just not necessary.

Much the same collective thought went into alcohol consumption. Personally, I'd be retired and rich if I collected a dime every time I heard boaters tell me something like, "A beer or two is no big deal. It's not like we're hammered when we're out on the water. Besides, the sun burns the alcohol right out of you!" Unfortunately if this happened our event insurance would be null and void.

Our policy is really very basic. When you sign up for an APRA-sanctioned event, leave the beer on the pier. Yes, we do have a few other mandatory rules, but each one is designed to make sure you and your crew don't wind up as victims of a life-endangering scenario that could have been easily avoided by following some common sense rules.

What does make me happy, however, is that more and more key poker run organizers are starting to think the same way, looking at the benefits offered by APRA. Better still, within the last few months, we've signed on several new members who understand and subscribe to our concept.

It really isn't simply just a case of the insurance coverage we offer, along with an assortment of member-exclusive benefits. The reality is that poker runs have become one of North America's prime pastimes for performance boaters. Public outcry, however, can change all that in a heartbeat.

One of the main reasons we started APRA is to create an organization of performance boaters, event organizers and marine industry leaders who are actively concerned and dedicated to future growth. I will go out of my way to make sure nothing changes this exciting new world of performance boating, that both you and I enjoy. After all Poker Runs is definitely our last Frontier, where we all get our adrenaline rush.

If you feel the same way and have suggestions give me a call 1-800-354-9145. ( Top )