HUNDREDS of motorcyclists reached deep into their pockets to support Junee’s Poker Run for its 12th year.
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Up to 430 people and bikes made their way across the Riverina on the annual tour, one of the biggest runs in the state, with everyone from club members to weekend warriors joining the ride.
Editor of Live to Ride magazine Greg “Loaf” Risk has been among the riders for many years.
“I’ve watched it grow from 100 to today’s 400 plus,” Mr Risk said.
“It’s one of the largest poker runs in NSW.
“One of the good things about this run is that the money stays in the community, it doesn’t go to a head office.
Mr Risk has been riding motorbikes for decades and beyond helping a good cause, there was a simple attraction to heading out on the Junee Poker Run.
“It’s the thrill of riding with so many bikes … it’s hard to explain,” he said.
“It makes the blood pump harder and faster.
“We’re not even doing warp speeds, we’re usually doing the limit or less.
“In a run as massive as this, if there’s an accident it works its way backwards.
“Everyone just wants to complete the run without incident.”
Mr Risk said the poker run was no different to people coming together for the Deniliquin Ute Muster or a country B&S Ball.
“People travel a long way to catch up with friends,” he said.
“It’s getting everyone together, and we end up talking about bikes.”
The Junee Poker Run’s first stop this year was the Royal Hotel in Marrar, before heading towards Temora.
Royal Hotel owner, Paul Flanagan said it was good for the pub to host the run.
“The whole community comes out to see them,” Mr Flanagan said.
“A few come help and buy raffle tickets.
“It’s a good cause that they raise money for and they’re always a good bunch of guys and girls.
“I’ve never had trouble.”
Ron Hindmarsh, one of the run’s organisers said the event ran smoothly, with no incidents or accidents.
He estimated at least $10,000 could be donated to the community through Can Assist, Cooinda Court, RFS and VRA.