An event that was originally developed by former Fountain Powerboats employee Guy Woolard, who passed away not long ago, the 2nd Annual Haulin’ Ass on the Pamlico Poker Run will take place the weekend of June 3.
One of the people spearheading the efforts to make sure this run takes place is Carol Price, president of Custom Marine Group, the new owners of Fountain, Baja, Donzi and Pro-Line. As in 2015, all proceeds will go to the Beaufort County military veterans in need of assistance. Last year, the event raised more than $5,000 and split the proceeds between two local veterans. A total of 40 boats competed in 2015, and organizers are hoping to top 50 in 2016.
What makes the fundraising efforts that much more impressive is the fact that the run has no entry fee. All participants must purchase one poker hand for $25 and one event T-shirt ($12 to $15). Poker runners can buy as many hands and T-shirts as they like.
The weekend kicks off with a cookout hosted by Bowers Performance and Custom Marine on Friday. There will be a DJ and two pig cookers to entertain and feed the crowd. Sponsors supply the main meal, and participants are encouraged to bring a side dish with BYOB refreshments. There is plenty of parking, and folks from out of town are encouraged to stay at the Hampton Inn.
The poker run will start Saturday morning at the Custom Marine Group (former Fountain Powerboats) factory in Washington, North Carolina. The boats will head to downtown Washington and then to Bath, followed by Belhaven and then Blounts Creek Marina before heading back to Washington. Total distance is about 80 miles, and lunch will be served at the Belhaven stop. Poker hands will include best and worst hands, and there may be blackjack as well. Visit the run’s Facebook page: Haulin’ Ass on the Pamlico.
