5th Annual Ray "Eagle" Ramirez Benefit Poker Run

Weather predictions for today claimed that we were going to get a bit of rain.  I thought, "Great. It's going to ruin my weekend."  Fortunately, as has been the case lately, the highly-paid professional prophets of precipitation have failed us, yet again.

I woke up, took a gander out my bedroom window toward what would have been dark grey clouds of doom, and spotted a welcoming blue sky.  I donned my appropriate cold weather riding gear - long-sleeved thermal top, t-shirt, coat, gloves, and jeans (don't worry; undergarments were present, too).

I quickly rode down to the biker church in order to register for the event, topping off my tank at one of the cheapest gas spots in town - a Circle K.  Upon arrival, I spotted many familiar faces and some not-so-familiar ones.

I paid, got on my steel steed, and followed a group out for the poker run.  Like the typical smart guy that I am, I forgot to draw my first card at the Roadhouse Biker Church.  I didn't realize it until we were a ways down the road, pulled over and waiting for others to join.

We proceeded onto the freeway, exiting at the base of the mountains.  Our directions pointed us back up the local mountains, past where I left this morning.

The weather was nice and cool. I kept most of my gear on - except gloves.  Drew my first card at Calvary Chapel in Running Springs - a jack of some face I cannot remember.  I pulled my second card at a fire station in Fawn Skin - a king.  Things are looking good - other than the fact that I still don't have a card from the starting location.

I split off from the group, hoping to make it back to the origin of the ride and pick what should have been my first card.  The church lot was empty.  Everyone seemingly went to the destination of the ride.  I continued onward.

The next stop was a Starbuck's location in Colton.  I grabbed a nine from the deck.  Things aren't looking too bad.  I have a chance of a straight.

I push onward and head to the final location - the party spot.  BBQ, music, raffles, and socializing await.

I get to the Park and head toward the booth to pull my final card and, hopefully, the one that I didn't get before heading out.  I spin the wheel of cards and get a jack.  Sweet!  I have a pair of them now.  I spin again.  A nine!  Two pairs!  Not bad.

After all was said and done, I didn't win the poker run.  This is starting to become a trend.  I did, however, have a good time.  I managed to hang out with some good people, enjoy some entertainment, and be a part of something special.

The reason this was special is that the "Eagle Run" is a benefit run that provides support for a selected fallen rider's family.  It really is an altruistic event.

Here are a few pics from the event.  I hope you enjoy.