The fourth edition of the Dominica Poker Run has been officially launched, with organizers promising a larger event, stronger tourism partnerships and the introduction of new activities designed to transform the annual boating competition into a full weekend marine tourism experience.
The official media launch took place at Almond Deck in Toucari, where representatives of the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA), the Dominica Festivals Committee, sponsors, law enforcement officials and event organisers outlined plans for this year’s event, which will be held on Sunday, July 26.
Opening the ceremony, Monelle Alexis, Public Relations and Communications Specialist at the Discover Dominica Authority, welcomed guests and described the Poker Run as one of Dominica’s premier marine events. She noted that participants will travel along the island’s west coast from Le Village at Rockaway Beach, Canefield, to Mero Beach, Purple Turtle Beach, Bell Hall Beach, before finishing at Poker City in Toucari, with each stop supporting local businesses and coastal communities.
Former Cottage Parliamentary Representative Reginald Austrie, who has helped guide the event since its inception, clarified that the Poker Run was founded by his children through Almond Deck, while he continues to provide guidance and support. He reflected on the event’s growth from a small family initiative into a nationally recognised tourism attraction.
“We started with zero dollars, and we’re still surviving four years later with zero dollars. You don’t start with money, you start with an idea,” Austrie said, encouraging aspiring entrepreneurs not to allow limited finances to prevent them from pursuing worthwhile projects.
Austrie explained that one of the original goals of the event was to showcase Toucari as a tourism destination while creating economic opportunities for restaurants, bars, small businesses and vendors throughout the community. He also welcomed the event’s formal recognition by the Discover Dominica Authority, describing it as a major milestone that will help the Poker Run continue expanding as a national tourism product.
Marketing and Promotions Lead Jael Joseph said this year’s event is designed to give participants a unique opportunity to experience Dominica from the sea while competing for the EC$10,000 grand prize. She encouraged both recreational boaters and corporate teams to participate, noting that companies have increasingly embraced the event as a team-building exercise.
“It’s about discovering our coastline, supporting businesses, connecting communities and creating memories that you’ll take with you long after the event is over,” Joseph said.
Joseph added that every checkpoint will feature food, entertainment, games and sponsor activities, with additional prizes available throughout the day. She also confirmed growing regional interest following promotional efforts outside Dominica aimed at positioning the island as a marine tourism destination.
Representing the Dominica Festivals Committee, Ogelly Moses, Festivals and Events Assistant, said the Poker Run has become an important component of Dominica’s festival tourism strategy. He noted that events such as the Poker Run generate business for restaurants, accommodation providers, bars and other tourism operators while showcasing authentic Dominican experiences.
“Visitors today are looking for meaningful experiences that connect them with people and the spirit of the destination. Poker Run does exactly that,” Moses said.
One of the major announcements during the launch was the introduction of a Sport Fishing Tournament, scheduled for Saturday, July 25, one day before the Poker Run. Marine tourism advocate Andrew O’Brien, widely known as “Cobra,” said the new competition will encourage visitors to spend an entire weekend in Dominica while reviving the island’s sport fishing tradition.
Bryan explained that organizers have assembled an experienced planning team and have already begun engaging regional fishing clubs and local fishing cooperatives to establish what they hope will become another signature tourism event for Dominica.
Head of the Northern Division of the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force, Superintendent Delvin Jno Lewis, assured organizers of the police’s continued support while urging participants to prioritise safety throughout the weekend. He encouraged boaters to wear life jackets, avoid excessive alcohol consumption while operating vessels, and follow instructions from law enforcement officers managing both marine and road traffic.
To reduce congestion in Toucari, Lewis announced that designated parking areas will be established at Bell Hall, Seventh Day Adventist grounds and nearby community facilities, with shuttle services transporting visitors into the village.
Among the event’s sponsors, Clifford Morancie of Morancie & Sons described the Poker Run as an investment in community development, tourism and local enterprise. He confirmed the company’s continued sponsorship and announced that visitors will have opportunities to win branded prizes through games and activities at the event village.
Past champions Team Dude, represented by Kerry Prince, praised the event for promoting marine tourism while creating opportunities for local businesses, fishers and hospitality operators. Prince said the team intends to compete once again for the championship title while encouraging more Dominicans and regional visitors to experience the event.
Organizers expect the combination of the new Sport Fishing Tournament and the fourth Dominica Poker Run to attract larger crowds, increase overnight stays and further strengthen Dominica’s reputation as a destination for marine recreation and festival tourism. Registration remains open for both events, with organizers encouraging boat owners, corporate teams and recreational participants to secure their places ahead of the July 25–26 weekend.
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