UPDATE - THE EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED DUE TO WEATHER FORECAST.
MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Riders from across Kansas will hit the road this Saturday for the fourth annual “Cruise for the Cure” poker run, a motorcycle (and road-legal vehicle) event organized to raise funds for the Cancer Council of Reno County. Hosted by Bretz Injury Law in partnership with Salty Cycles, the charity ride has grown into a community-fueled tradition drawing more than 100 participants in past years.
The event begins Saturday morning, April 26, at Salty Cycles, located at 129 E. Sherman in Hutchinson. Registration opens at 9:30 a.m., with engines revving for the start at 10:30 a.m. Riders will embark on an 87-mile route that stretches into neighboring Harvey County, stopping at four checkpoints: Buhler Gas Company in Buhler, Lighthouse Coffee in Inman, Dan’s Cycle in Hesston, and the American Legion Post in Halstead, before returning to Bretz Injury Law for lunch, raffles and awards.
Entry fees are $25 for one poker hand or $50 for three. The poker element of the ride includes drawing cards at each stop, with a final skill game determining the last card. Prizes will be awarded for the best hand, second-best hand, and even the worst hand—a playful tradition that adds fun to the serious cause.
“This event was created to support a cause nearly everyone can relate to,” said Casey Ensz, an organizer with Bretz Injury Law. “Cancer affects almost every family, and the Cancer Council of Reno County does a tremendous job helping those who fall through the cracks of insurance and other support systems.”
Half of the entry fees go directly to the Cancer Council, which provides assistance with transportation, food and other expenses for local patients. Additional fundraising will include raffles with prizes donated by area businesses. Raffle tickets are $5 each or five for $20. A free lunch catered by Cancun Mexican Grill will be served to participants upon return.
And the event isn’t just for bikers. “If you’ve got a road-legal vehicle—even a Toyota Camry—you’re welcome to join us,” Ensz said. “It’s about raising money and awareness. The more, the merrier.”
The event marks the first poker run of the season for Bretz Injury Law, which organizes four charity rides annually, benefiting various causes including Mothers Against Drunk Driving.
For more information or to register, participants can email Casey Ensz at [email protected] or call the office at (620) 662-3435. Walk-ups the morning of the event are welcome.