Support Our Troops Poker Run Registration Lagging

Nothing can touch the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout in terms of charitable reach and community impact for the surrounding Central Missouri areas. But before that season-ending event kicks off in late August, there are a slew of worthwhile happenings that, though far smaller, are equally impactful, heartfelt and important to the lives they affect.

The Support Our Troops Poker Run needs a significant registration push now ahead of the June 20 event. Photos by Jeff Helmkamp copyright Helmkamp Photos.

Chief among them is the Support Our Troops Poker Run, which is set for Friday, June 20, and will celebrate its 18th anniversary this year. Yet if the event started tomorrow, there wouldn’t be enough registered boats to host the 50 to 100 military members and first responders the day on the water typically attracts.

Registration currently stands at 12 boats. During a typical year, more than 50 boat owners in the area have already committed to be there for the Big Thunder Marine-produced event.

“Every year, I see firsthand the impact this event has—not just on the troops, but on everyone involved,” said Sage Rush, the multi-location, multi-brand dealership’s marketing coordinator. “A boat ride might feel small, but to them. it’s everything. Don’t underestimate what your time, your boat and your presence can do.”