8th Annual Benefit Trail Ride & Poker Run
November 9, 2008
Athens County Children Services hosted their annual Benefit Trail Ride and Poker Run on Sunday, November 9, 2008 at Begley's ATV Campground located in New Straitsville. The benefit now in its eighth year, was open to ATV and dirt bike riders of all ages. The event participants rode Wayne National Forest Trails while selecting playing cards for their poker hands at various checkpoints. Riders could sign up from 8 am to 11 am, and the cost of entry was a $20.00 donation, which included lunch.
The Trail Ride and Poker Run began at 11:00 am. Wayne National Forest Permits were required and one-day permits were available for sale at the campground as well as Wayne National Forest Head Quarters. Participants had the opportunity to ride a designated 15 mile novice trail or a 35 mile main trail throughout Wayne National Forest.
Kroger provided a cookout-style awards lunch that took place at 3:00 pm. Awards were presented in several categories including overall best hand, women's, over 50 years old, youth, and largest group or club.
All proceeds benefit the 21st Annual Santa Tree Christmas Project, a program coordinated by Athens County Children Services. The Christmas Project enables the community to provide gifts to children throughout Athens County. Over 1200 children received gifts through the project in 2008.
For additional details on the Benefit Trail Ride and Poker Run, contact CJ Verity at (740) 592-3061 ext. 501 or (740) 590-2221. For campground information call (740) 394-2539. Begley's Campground is located at the intersection of Route 595 and Route 216 in downtown New Straitsville.
