(8-8-2023) Saturday brought sunshine and endless excitement as the Second Annual ‘New’ Bolivar Peninsula Golf Cart Poker Run kicked off its engines. The festivities commenced at Jose’s Cantina, where the enthusiastic gathering of over 450 poker players checked in and received their initial playing cards, setting the tone for an unforgettable day. This year introduced an exciting addition: the chance for players to purchase ‘mulligans’, granting them an extra card at each pit stop.

As the engines revved up, participants embarked on a leisurely parade of golf carts to four more prominent Crystal Beach establishments. At the stroke of 9:30am, the procession of 150+ vibrant carts set off from Jose’s, traversing the highway to reach the sandy shores. The momentum carried them to Tiki Beach Bar & Grill for the second stop, followed by Nauti Beaver Hut, where the tactics of bluffing and strategic betting began to take shape.

Amidst the gameplay, discerning judges wandered amidst rows of creatively adorned carts, selecting the top three best-decorated entries – a testament to the participants’ ingenuity and artistic flair.

The cart convoy then rallied at Eagles for the fourth card, accompanied by cheerful camaraderie and signature jello shots. Finally, the journey culminated at Stingaree, where players acquired their final card and engaged in spirited bidding during the Live Auction. Auctioneer Rich Courville (subbing for Big Daddy Flanagan) led the auction, embodying the spirit of community generosity.

This year’s auction’s proceeds, comprising thousands of dollars, were devoted to local schools and fire departments. After the auction, the winners of the day were revealed, marking the triumphant close of the event.

A heartfelt salute goes to Jeff Cunningham and the dedicated Board of Directors behind the BP Golf Cart Poker Run – a 501c3 non-profit – for their commitment to this event’s success. Gratitude extends to the host establishments, volunteers, and sponsors whose contributions enabled hundreds of revelers to come together in support of a worthy cause. Despite the sweltering heat, each participant’s presence underscored their dedication to a meaningful purpose.

Rick Kelly with the winning poker hand was 5 Aces – Congratulations

First Place for Best Decorated Cart goes to the Pearl Beach Fire Department

Second Place for Best Decorated Cart goes to the Pirate Ship

Third Place for Best Decorated Cart goes to Under The Sea

Mike and Denise from Arkansas won the ‘Traveled The Furthest’ award

Team Groovy repeats as winner of the award for ‘Largest Team’