There are a number of reasons why cycling is rising in popularity. It's easy to get into - you don't need to spend thousands of dollars on the latest top-of-the-range model when there are so many entry-level machines which work just fine. Then there are the health benefits to consider; all that leg movement does wonders for your metabolism. Another reason why cycling is taking off is the social side of it. There's nothing like meeting up with your buddies and enjoying the fresh air together before winding down with some refreshments.
The community side of cycling shouldn't be underestimated. It needn't just be a good ride around the local beauty spots. Increasingly popular are rides for charity where people get together to peddle along a route to raise funds for good causes and, of course, stay healthy.
A good money-raising event with a twist would be a poker run which can involve as few or as many people as you wish, all enjoying the social aspect of cycling with an added twist.
What Is a Poker Run?
Basically, a poker run involves the riders selecting a route and stopping at five or seven pre-ordained halts, where they are given a playing card. At the end of the ride, everyone presents their cards, and the one with the best hand is deemed the winner be it a royal flush, a humble pair or anything in between. All the organizers need at the end is a basic grasp of poker hand rankings to work out the winner; your riders don’t even need to know, although it will make it more fun for them at a checkpoint if they do know they only need one certain card for a good hand.
The Basics
It sounds simple, and it is, but it does require some preparation. The first thing you'll need is a route, which would need to be designed with marshals at the start and finish to add a sheen of professionalism.
A number of stops need to be scouted, and these would be better if they are at places of scenic or historical interest so the participants can enjoy the actual ride. You will also need to be marshals at each stop to distribute the cards to each rider and ensure no one tries to cheat!
Finally, you need riders. It's best if you engage the help of a local riding club and ask people to pay to join up. That's where the charity aspect comes in. You need to sell the day as being a fun, social ride along an agreed course with like-minded people.
Don't Forget
Once the route has been laid out, it's a good idea to prepare a leaflet or a PDF file that riders can download to their cellphone, which shows the map as well as gives a brief overview of the rules.
Organizers also need to ensure they have the necessary permits if they wish to cycle through any private land or National Parks. It's also worth detailing in advance what prizes are on offer and how they are to be funded - do competitors chip in a certain amount on registration, for example?
At the end of the day, everyone gets a fun day out built around a healthy bike ride and the prospect of winning a few dollars in the company of good friends. What more do you need?!