2026 Elk Angels Poker Run Raises Approximately $15,000

Beautiful weather greeted riders and supporters at the 2026 Elk Angels Poker Run, held over Labor Day weekend, September 4–7, at Mallow Camp between Sundance and Newcastle. Hosted by the Gillette Elks Lodge #2825, the event brought together about 80 people and 28 machines for a weekend of riding, friendship, and support for Wyoming students. There were a couple of minor mishaps, but nothing serious. Organizers estimate the event raised approximately $15,000. We would like to thank everyone who donated and helped with the run. We couldn’t do it without you. 

The Poker Run began about 18 years ago when Elks members Bill Paddleford and Chuck Samples of Jackson and Sid McDonald of Thermopolis organized an ATV ride over Memorial Day weekend. The ride grew into an annual event held at locations across Wyoming. It later moved to Labor Day weekend, when trails in the state’s mountain areas are more likely to be accessible.

Today, the ride supports Elks Angels, a Wyoming Elks scholarship program for children of eligible Wyoming veterans and military personnel who served or are serving in the War on Terror. What began as a small fundraising effort has grown through the work of riders, host lodges, local businesses, and donors from around the state.

The Gillette Lodge’s 2026 event carried on a tradition that brings people together for a good cause. As the Elks put it, “We have fun helping others.”

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