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Riding for a Reason: The 2nd Annual Puerto Morelos Charity Poker Run
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Riding for a Reason: The 2nd Annual Puerto Morelos Charity Poker Run |
A fun Sunday ride in Quintana Roo that helps kids from Leona Vicario experience the reef for the first time |
Puerto Morelos Insider
Mar 4, 2026
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Mark your calendars for Sunday, March 8, 2026, when the 2nd Annual Puerto Morelos Charity Motorcycle Poker Run returns to town.
This year with an expanded mission and a powerful coalition of local ocean professionals united behind a single cause: bringing the reef experience to children who have never had the opportunity.
This year's event isn't just about motorcycles, cards, and prizes. It's about transforming lives by introducing up to 30 or more children from Leona Vicario, some of whom have never experienced the ocean, or rarely get to visit, to the reef that defines our community.
A Mission Born from Passion for the Ocean
The 2026 Poker Run represents a unique partnership between ocean professionals who work on the reef every day. Just Snorkel, Wetset Diving Adventures, Akasha Diving, and Ero Tours have joined forces to make this event possible, recognizing that sharing the ocean's beauty with the next generation is just as important as enjoying it themselves.
As Mario from Just Snorkel puts it, "As ocean professionals, we believe it's important not only to enjoy this beautiful place, but to share it." This philosophy drives every aspect of the event.
The funds raised will directly support a comprehensive day-long experience for the children.
This includes transportation to Puerto Morelos, beach time, basic swimming instruction for those who need it, a guided boat tour to explore the reef with professional guides, meals, and safe return home the same day.
For many of these children, this will be their very first time truly experiencing the reef, a place that many of us take for granted.
How a Poker Run Works
For those unfamiliar with the format, a poker run is a unique charity-friendly motorcycle event that combines the thrill of riding with the fun of card games.
Here's how it works: riders visit a sequence of checkpoint stops along the route, draw a playing card at each stop, and try to assemble the best poker hand by the end of the ride.
The rider with the top hand wins a prize, with additional prizes often awarded for other hands or even the worst hand.
It's a format that's both engaging and inclusive—the outcome depends on a combination of skill, strategy, and luck, making it exciting for everyone involved.
The Route: 165 Kilometers of Scenic Adventure
The poker run covers approximately 165 kilometers with five designated stops where participants will draw their cards:
While motorcycles are the main theme, all vehicles are welcome to participate in the ride. Whether you're on a bike, in a car, or simply want to join the community celebration, there's a place for you.
Participating in the Poker Run
Entry and Participation: There is no entry fee to join the ride or attend the after-party at Don Ernesto's. Just show up at Cantina Habanero at 10:30am to register.
However, to play in the poker run, participants can purchase a hand for 250 Mexican pesos, with each hand including five cards drawn across the five stops. Of this cost, 50 pesos goes directly to the charity.
Wristband Benefits: At the first stop, all participants receive a wristband and a poker score card with their name and number. The wristband provides valuable perks including a 10% discount at Zenzi Beach and a 2-hour happy hour at Don Ernesto's.
Prizes and Payouts: Prizes are awarded for the best hand and the worst hand, with a 70/30 payout split between the two winners.
Raffles and Drawings: More Ways to Support the Cause
Beyond the poker run itself, the event features two exciting raffles, with all proceeds supporting the children's reef experience.
50/50 Raffle: Tickets are 50 pesos each. Participants receive two matching tickets, one enters the drawing, and one stays with them. When a ticket is drawn, the winner receives 50% of the total raffle proceeds, while the other 50% goes directly to the charity.
Tequila Raffle: A bottle of 1800 tequila is the prize, with tickets also priced at 50 pesos. The winner takes home the bottle, while the charity receives funds above the bottle's cost.
The After-Party: Music, Community, and Celebration
The event culminates at Don Ernesto's with an after-party featuring live music by the popular local band Deja Vu. This is where the community comes together to celebrate a great day of riding, enjoy food and drinks, and continue supporting the cause. The 2-hour happy hour for wristband holders makes it an especially attractive way to wind down the day.
Event Merchandise and Additional Support
T-shirts will be available for sale throughout the event, with all proceeds supporting the children's experience. Like the poker hands, t-shirt sales represent another direct way for participants to contribute to the cause.
Event Details at a Glance
How to Get More Information and RSVP
For complete details about the event, visit the official Facebook event page or the information link. RSVP is encouraged to help organizers plan for the number of participants.
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1804509130259569/
You Don't Have to Ride To Join In The Fun
Here's the beauty of this event: you don't have to ride a motorcycle to participate and make a difference.
Whether you're a seasoned rider, a casual driver, or simply someone who wants to support the community, there's a role for you. Come hang out, play cards, have fun, and support the cause. All vehicles are welcome, or simply join us for the after-party.
As the Just Snorkel team says, "Let's ride for a reason."
The 2nd Annual Puerto Morelos Charity Poker Run is a testament to the power of community and the commitment of local ocean professionals to share the beauty of our reef with the next generation.
Your participation, whether on the road, at the stops, or at the after-party, makes a real difference in the lives of children who deserve to experience the ocean that defines our home.
Join the fun on March 8th, and ride for a reason. ❤️♠️ |