In only its third year, the Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Poker Rally has revved its way into the national spotlight.
In only its third year, the Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Poker Rally has revved its way into the national spotlight.
Screaming through the Foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Rolling Thunder is a benefit ride for bikers and biker wannabes to raise money for Wounded Warriors Canada.
This year, the event, which takes place Sept. 14, will find itself on centre stage when CTV’s Biker TV takes part in the rally, and will feature a full-length episode of Rolling Thunder on the network.
“This means that Cochrane will be on the national stage again, ” said Mick Gee, safety manager for the event.
Gee also said that with Rolling Thunder raising money for Wounded Warriors, it brings a sense of pride to the community for supporting the men and women who put their lives on the line to protect the country.
With its first ride and poker rally launching in 2011, Rolling Thunder was conjured up by Gary Stubbs and Betty-Anne Jansen of Cochrane’s Foothills Motorcycle Apparel.
Wounded Warriors is a non-profit organization that raises money to help members of the Canadian Forces, injured, wounded and those suffering from mental health issues.
Stubbs, a former combat engineer, is a veteran of the Canadian Forces.
In 2012, Rolling Thunder raised over $3,500, and this year hopes to hit the $5,000 mark.
Riders will begin and end their journey from the Cochrane Legion, visiting the Canmore and Exshaw Legions and Stoney Nakoda Resort and Casino along the way.
At these stops, participants gather playing cards in the hopes of collecting the best poker hand and raising the most money for Wounded Warriors.
Anyone wishing to take part in the poker run or those wishing to help sponsor the event can contact Jansen at 403-851-0611 for more information.
