ATV Charity Poker Run: much more than a great ride

Seventh annual event raises thousands for ailing kids and their families

By RICHARD A. ROSS

ELDRED, NY — Legions of ATV enthusiasts arrive for the Seventh Annual Charity Poker Run as the early morning fog lifts off Stegie’s Lake. Upwards of 650 riders fuel up on a continental breakfast before heading out in small groups for either a 40-mile ride to Hector’s Inn in Bethel or a 50-mile trek to the Fosterdale Motor Lodge. The event, organized by the Sullivan County ATV Association, raises money for gravely ill children.

Each rider receives a sealed envelope that contains a poker hand and some time later in the day, some lucky muddy gal, guy or kid is a winner.

But in truth, the true winners are the children, who will receive the event proceeds.

Last year proceeds totaling $26,000 dollars were divided between two local kids. (See Youth in Focus below.)

Begun in 1999, the event attracted about 90 riders and raised money for Brandon Rains. More importantly, the excitement generated set the stage for future runs as club members Jay Meddaugh, Jr., Michael Cooper, Ed Houman and Tony Poll donated their time and energy to the event’s expansion. Soon stories began to appear in the press citing the event’s noble cause. ATV riders surfing the Internet got wind of the event, and it began to grow by leaps and bounds.

Outgrowing its initial staging site at Mr. Willy’s in Monticello, the event moved to Monticello Raceway in its third year and raised money for Michael Martin and Brent Houghe. The number of riders burgeoned to about 340.

In the fifth year, the ride began at Hector’s Inn and attracted the support of the Gerry Foundation, The Iroquois Hunting Club, Steve Dubrovsky, Gibson McKean and other property owners including the Eldred Preserve. Over $18,000 was raised.

Last year, the Eldred Preserve offered to host the event and participants raved about the hospitality of the facility and the organization.

In an attempt to make things run even more smoothly, this year’s organizers decided to have riders leave on a staggered basis as they arrived. Riders got to travel with their friends in small groups. Former recipients of the event’s charitable donations are often on hand as are the children and their families destined to receive this year’s ample contribution.

Looking over the sea of ATVs and witnessing the camaraderie of the riders, who sip their coffee and share tales of great rides, this unique event offers a wonderful blend of sport and humanity. For the riders, the organizers and the children, the annual Sullivan County ATV Poker Run is truly a joy on wheels.