PADDLE FOR BETTERMENT · 25th Annual Charity Poker Run
Schedule
Sat Jul 11 2026 at 09:00 am to 12:00 pm
UTC-04:00Location
Scenic View Park | Alexandria Bay, NY
🚣♀️ WHERE THE RIVER BECOMES A TRADITION 💧Have Fun · Make Memories · Give Back!
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS of paddling, community, and the Ripple Effect of Kindness in Alexandria Bay!
Join us for the 25th Annual Paddle for Betterment on Saturday, July 11, 2026, in the heart of the 1000 Islands. Hosted by the Alexandria Bay Chapter of the Foundation for Community Betterment, this beloved tradition is more than just a paddle — it’s a celebration of river life, community spirit, outdoor adventure, and giving back.
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🃏 WHAT’S A PADDLE POKER RUN?
Paddle your kayak, canoe, SUP or skiff to checkpoints around the 1000 islands, collecting cards to build your poker hand. Best hands win fun and awesome prizes!
🏆 AMAZING PRIZES AWARDED:
🥇GRAND Prizes for Top 3 Poker Hands in Youth (17 & Under) and Adult (18+) Divisions
🎁 Door Prizes for Adults, Teens & Youth sponsored by Kahrs Construction
🃏 "Joker Card" Draw
🐢 "Last Paddler Back to the Beach"
💸 $2,500 Gift Certificate for a "ROYAL FLUSH" Sponsored by Sundance Leisure Pools & Spas ♠️♥️♣️♦️
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👕 REGISTER EARLY & SAVE BIG!
Pre-register by June 19 to:
✅ Save $5
✅ Get a FREE fitted $15 event t-shirt
(Sponsored by Cherry Island Weddings)
👉 www.tinyurl.com/PaddleForBetterment2026
🎉YOUR REGISTRATION INCLUDES:
Entry to Friday Night's Welcome Party at Bonnie Castle Resort (6-8 PM), FREE breakfast, door prize entry, chance to win GRAND PRIZES, water & snack bar, and a signature gift — A waterproof Dry Bag, sponsored by 4 Green Power Systems!
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🗓️ EVENT SCHEDULE – SATURDAY, JULY 11
📍 Village Beach, Alexandria Bay
🕗 8:00 AM – Check-In & Day-of Registration
🕘 9:00 AM – Paddle Poker Run Begins!
🕚 11:00 AM–12:00 PM – Recipient Ceremony (the heart of our weekend ❤️)
🎉 Celebrate the “Ripple Effect” of your generosity in action!
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🛶 ABOUT THE COURSE:
Paddle through the scenic waters of the St. Lawrence River on an approximately 3.5-mile poker run course surrounded by the beauty of the Thousand Islands. You may choose an optional “Scenic Shortcut Route,” skipping the longest stretch through the main shipping channel while still receiving a full poker hand at check-in ♠️ — creating a fun and memorable experience for both first-time paddlers and longtime river adventurers alike.
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💛 WHY PADDLE FOR BETTERMENT?
Because every stroke on the river helps create a ripple effect right here in our community. Paddle for Betterment is about more than just a beautiful day on the water — it’s about coming together to support local individuals, organizations, and causes in need.
Your participation also helps strengthen the “Ron McLennan Immediate Need Fund,” allowing our chapter to provide meaningful support to Alexandria Bay residents throughout the entire year.
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🌟 SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE!
Want your business, family, or team to be part of the impact?
Become an event sponsor and help amplify the ripple effect.
www.tinyurl.com/SponsorBetterment2026
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✨ MORE FUN AWAITS!
Explore the full Community Betterment Weekend lineup:
🛶 Paddle for Betterment
🏌️ Golf for Betterment
🎾 Tennis for Betterment
🎶 Welcome Party
❤️ Recipient Ceremony
🍋 Lemonade for Betterment
👉 www.CommunityBetterment.org/AlexandriaBay
Let’s paddle with purpose—See you on the RIVER! 💦
Where is it happening?
Scenic View Park, 8 Fuller St, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607-1316, United States
Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.
