Poker Run 2026
Nearly 150 boats turned out for this years’ Pirates of Lanier Poker Run the last weekend of September.
About 65-70 go-fast boats led the start at Buford Dam for their long course, followed by pontoons and jet skis in the second stage and day boats and cruisers in the third start. About half of the registrants were locals.
“The weekend was far better than our expectations,” said Jeff Mogan with the new organization producing this year’s event, Lake Lanier Pirate Charities. “From the vendors’ village and car/boat show on Friday all the way through the casino party and awards on Saturday night, it was apparent with the new committee members and volunteers that we had made some positive changes that our participants enjoyed, including the 3-stage start and a very active vendor village.”
Mogan said that between 450 and 500 people showed up for the captains’ meeting and welcome party.
“One of our Friday highlights was the introduction of boats at the vendor village,” he said. “Many people loved seeing the go-fast boats on display at Grand Hall Friday night; it added to the excitement and enthusiasm for the Poker Run on Saturday.”
The Casino Night/Awards party included a live auction, a band – Dock Rock Radio – dancing and the awards ceremony.
Proceeds from the Pirates of Lanier Charity Poker Run benefit two non-profits: the Lake Lanier Association and the Georgia K9 Search & Recovery.
For more information and additional events, visit laniercharityevents.com.
Photo: provided by Poker Run 2026, Photo by Jeff Greenhut
