The 1000 Islands Charity Poker Run in the small town of Clayton, NY, scheduled for July 13-15, is not only one of the finer events in the country, but it's one of the most charitable. Since its inception in 2017, the event organizers in upstate New York have donated tens of thousands of dollars to their local medical facility, River Hospital, which has been specializing in the treatment and continued care for our veterans for 20 years, this year. TICPR has also continued to sponsor the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central New York, not only donating funds from the proceeds but also making one special child's dream come true, each and every heartfelt year.
With such generosity, as well as top notch activities, breathtaking sights and elaborate dining spreads, all based out of the 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel, it's no wonder that the top names in performance boating continue to mark this one on their event calendars––each July.
Among those returning again for their third consecutive year is Mercury Racing, who is celebrating their 50th year in innovating and leading the speedboating industry––spearheaded by the company's tireless Brand Manager, Andrea Jansen.
"We're super proud to be a sponsor of this event," Jansen told Speedboat. "We're very passionate in supporting it, because of their dedication to the community, and their tie to Make-A-Wish."
They will be bringing their unmistakable Factory Tour Truck, as well as their new MTI 390X test boat, powered by a pair of their latest power plant that debuted earlier this year at the Miami International Boat Show––the V-10 400R, naturally aspirated outboard engines. Mercury Racing Production Integration Manager Mike Griffiths and Product Integration Engineer Roy Mitchell will accompany Jansen in New York.
Event president Bobby Cantwell is still humbled by the support of the Fond-du-Lac company's ongoing sponsorship.
"We look forward to working with them again this year," said Cantwell. "Our partnership has been over the top and we couldn't be prouder that such an industry leader like Mercury Racing enjoys our event enough to return and support us for their third time."
Also returning to continue their support are Aqua-Mania, G3 Offshore Race Team, and Kimco Steel Sales, reassuming their previous roles as title sponsors. Returning manufacturers are MTI, Mystic Powerboats, DCB Performance Boats, as well as newcomers to the event, Donzi Marine, with Iconic Marine Group owner Fred Ross leading their charge.
The festivities kick off on Thursday, July 13 with registration in the lobby of the 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel, followed by the popular evening Block Party on the adjacent street of Riverside Drive. Friday brings the always rewarding Make-A-Wish rides for the foundation's children and their families just off the docks of the hotel, which leads into the infamous stereo wars and ever-impressive light show, after the sun falls. Saturday is the main Poker Run day, with runs along the Saint Lawrence River and up into picturesque Alexandria Bay and out in front of real-life, fairytale style castles––Boldt Castle and Singer Castle.
Poker hands card turn-in begins after the run, followed by an elaborate dinner buffet, live auction, awards, guest speakers, live music and dancing––all capped off with a world-class fireworks show, signaling the conclusion of the event.
For more information and sponsorship opportunities, go to https://www.1000islandsrun.com/charity/
