The 4th Annual Poker Run by UNLEASHED took place on July 29th, 2023, serving as a poignant milestone as it signaled the final year of the event being hosted by APL’s staff. Despite this bittersweet moment, organizers adhered to the proven recipe for a successful day of boating and fundraising, ensuring that participants experienced the same level of excitement, camaraderie, and philanthropy that has become synonymous with the event over the years.
2022 UNLEASHED POKER RUN
UNLEASHED’s 3rd Poker Run, held on July 30, 2021, marked another milestone in our event’s evolution. Building on the success of our second year, which featured helicopter coverage, we introduced exciting new elements to elevate the experience for participants.
One such addition was a catered lunch at the Point in Pittsburgh, providing a picturesque setting for attendees to refuel and connect amidst the scenic beauty of the area. To ensure optimal photo and video capture, particularly for performance boats, we encouraged a leisurely pace from Pittsburgh to Windmill Cove, allowing our pilot and photographer ample opportunity to capture the perfect shots.
The allure of UNLEASHED’s Poker Run was further heightened by the extraordinary prizes on offer. From an exclusive SF 49ers suite experience to luxurious vacations, paddle boards, and yet another coveted stereo/cooler combo, the prize lineup was nothing short of spectacular, reflecting our commitment to delivering unforgettable rewards to our participants.
The enthusiasm surrounding our event was palpable, with over 100 boats and 350 participants converging to partake in the excitement and camaraderie. As highlighted in the coverage by Speed on the Water, UNLEASHED’s Poker Run continues to gain momentum and solidify its position as a premier event in the poker run community.
As we reflect on the success of our 3rd year, we are grateful for the unwavering support of our participants, sponsors, and partners. With each iteration, we strive to push the boundaries of excellence, creating memorable experiences and fostering a sense of community that transcends the thrill of the open water.
2021 UNLEASHED Poker Run
UNLEASHED’s highly anticipated 2nd Poker Run, held on July 30, 2021, not only reinforced our presence in the world of poker runs but also showcased significant enhancements from our inaugural event. Building upon the success and lessons learned from our first year, we meticulously refined our processes to ensure an even more exhilarating and seamless experience for all participants.
One of the notable additions for our second year was the inclusion of a helicopter to enhance event planning and coordination, allowing for a bird’s-eye view of the stunning California Delta landscape. Additionally, we expanded our media coverage with the enlistment of a second professional photographer and videographer, capturing every thrilling moment and ensuring lasting memories for all attendees.
The enthusiasm for UNLEASHED’s Poker Run was palpable, reflected in the impressive turnout of over 100 boats, surpassing our previous year’s participation. Despite the increased numbers, we remained committed to providing personalized attention and top-notch amenities for each participant.
Continuing our tradition of excellence, the raffle and prize offerings for our second year were akin to those of the previous year, albeit with subtle enhancements to elevate the excitement even further. From luxurious vacations to high-speed adventures, the prizes exemplified the thrill and prestige of the poker run lifestyle.
As highlighted in coverage by Speed on the Water, UNLEASHED’s return to the Delta Maze garnered widespread anticipation and acclaim within the poker run community, setting the stage for future iterations of this exhilarating event. With each passing year, we strive to exceed expectations, leaving an indelible mark on the world of poker runs and fostering unforgettable experiences for all who join us on this exhilarating journey.
2020 UNLEASHED Poker Run
The inaugural UNLEASHED Poker Run took place on the California Delta in 2020, attracting approximately 70 boats ranging from high-performance to leisurely vessels. Participants were treated to complimentary breakfasts, T-shirts, and a grab bag of swag before embarking on an adventurous day exploring the Delta via two designated routes. Both routes provided comprehensive coverage of the stunning California Delta scenery, culminating in a return to Windmill Cove. There, attendees enjoyed a complimentary dinner alongside live music, a raffle, a silent auction of memorabilia, and the eagerly anticipated final poker hand showdown. Prizes were awarded for the top three hands, including luxurious vacations, a trip to Speed Vegas, and a custom cooler equipped with a powerful stereo system.