Information

Welcome to the 7th Annual Vermilion Port Authority

Paddle Fest Poker Run!  Sunday, June 15th, 2025

 

The following information for 2025 Poker Paddlers will be helpful to ensure

everyone has a safe, great experience. PLEASE READ CAREFULLY!

 

 Start/Finish:  Vermilion Port Authority ADA Kayak Launch 777 West River Rd., Vermilion, OH 44089

 

Registration / Check-In: 8:30 AM – 9:15 AM: REGISTRATION CLOSED

  • Check-in location: Vermilion Port Authority ADA Kayak Launch
  • Pre-registration by June 8th - $25.  June 10-16th - $30.  No Refunds, We go rain or shine.
  • All paddlers are required to check-in on Sunday at the Paddle Fest Poker Run Registration Area.
  • A Vermilion Port Authority Poker Run application and waiver form is required for all paddlers at check in.

 

At Check-In: All Paddlers Must follow all Covid protocol.

  • Please adhere to all Current Federal/State/County Guidelines that pertain to Covid, this includes but is not limited to using hand sanitizer, following signage, and wearing a mask on land.  
  • Due to limited parking space, participants will be directed to leave their boat at the designated drop off area and go to the vehicle parking at the top of the hill or where directed by the Port Authority Staff.
  •  Report to the main registration table where each paddler will receive a Poker “Ziploc Packet & door prize ticket.

FYI: Restroom facilities are located near the north end of the parking lot across from the large boat docks

 

Weather / Safety-Related Changes / Announcements:

  • Conditions will be monitored closely throughout the morning of the Poker Paddle.
  • In the event of thunder/lightning, heavy rain or fog (that minimizes visibility), wind/rough water, and/or tornado warning/watch the Poker Paddle may be delayed or cancelled.
  • Up to a one-hour delay in start time is possible, if needed due to weather.
  • There is no inclement-weather date.
  • Any/all changes will be announced the morning of the Poker Paddle

 

Phone access: Will be available at each stop along the course thanks to volunteers and staff.

 

Time Limitations: The Poker Paddle course will officially close at 11:45 AM. Prizes awarded at Noon.

 

Safety Boats / Kayakers: Safety boaters/kayakers (wearing YELLOW T-shirts) will be on the Vermilion River course to guide paddlers in staying on-course and to provide assistance as needed. If you should end up in the water grasp the bow (front) or stern (back) of any assisting kayak...and never grasp the sides.

 

All Poker Paddle Volunteers will be wearing YELLOW T-Shirts: The Poker Paddle is primarily a volunteer effort. Volunteers are exactly that: people giving of their own time to help provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Volunteers are not paid. This includes those working at registration, at the start, at the stops, on boats, in kayaks, in the water and at the finish...everyone. It is expected that all participants treat every volunteer with respect.

 

The Vermilion Port Authority Paddle Fest Poker Run is a non-alcoholic, non-competitive, celebratory, completion event. No official times will be kept. Those who want a record of their approximate time should plan to wear a watch.

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