Highway 35 Motorcycle Club's epic poker run

The Highway 35 Motorcycle Club turned on an epic weekend for the 165 riders from this district and around the country, who took part in the Poker Run. St John ambulance benefited by nearly $5000. A highlight for the riders was driving down to Anaura Bay, and they are pictured here on that part of the ride. Picture supplied

The 165 riders who took part in the Highway 35 Motorcycle Club’s Poker Run on State Highway 35 at the weekend had an “epic” time, according to event organiser Ivan Lomax.

They were expecting a few more riders, but the lousy weather put off a few.

“The whole weekend was a great success, from our pool competition on Friday night dedicated to the late Vic Ross, through to our Poker Run on Saturday,” Mr Lomax said.

“Locals up and down the southern East Coast were out in support to see the millions of dollars worth of machines on the road.

“The third leg at the Anaura Bay campgrounds was a highlight for many as they had never been to that little East Coast gem before.

“As they reached the top of the hill they were gobsmacked with the vista looking down into the bay.”

There was a special Furthest Rider trophy for a longtime motorcycle supporter who has visited the East Coast many times to support fundraising events.

The Hape Lomax trophy was won by the Whanau Riders all the way from Dargaville.

“We raised $4880 in total, divided into $2440 each for St John Ruatoria and NZ P Pull.

“However, yesterday morning Tuta Ngarimu from NZ P Pull advised us that they wanted their share to go towards St John who he said do a fantastic job on the East Coast.

“Ka pai NZ P Pull.”

Facebook posts since the weekend summed up how well the event went.

• “What a choice weekend — thank you Highway 35 East Coast.”

• “The food, the people, the manaakitanga, awesome hosts, awesome people, awesome friendships and memories made!!”

•“Thanks again!  We had a blast!!”