‘Those Guys’ A.B.A.T.E Chapter Held Its 16th Annual Poker Run For Children’s Home Society

“Those Guys” American Bikers Aimed Toward Education (A.B.A.T.E.) held its 16th annual poker run over the weekend. This event raised money for the Children’s Home Society in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The proceeds provide children with Christmas presents and other gifts.

“Those Guys” A.B.A.T.E. promote awareness for bikers, safer riding conditions, and the individual rights of motorcyclists

The A.B.A.T.E. promotes safer riding conditions, awareness for bikers, and working towards a more inclusive motorcycle community. It’s essentially an organization of motorcyclists dedicated to the protection of the individual rights of motorcyclists through political change, public education, and charitable works.

A.B.A.T.E. is also active in the elimination of unfair legislation as it concerns motorcyclists. It promotes motorcycle safety through both motorist and rider education. The organization works to improve the image of motorcyclists to the general public as well.

As for the annual poker run, members participate for a different reason.

”We do it for the kids. I mean, what better charity is there than doing something for the kids? And so, this chapter, this is their 16th year hosting this poker run. It’s part of the camaraderie, the community, and just having a lot of fun while we do it,” A.B.A.T.E. member Ken McFarland told Keloland News.

“A lot of chrome, a lot of color, a lot of different walks of life,” Laillya Schultz (Iggy) also told Keloland News.

The Cheap Shots parking lot filled up as the registration for the poker run began. An estimated 450 motorcyclists participated in the event.

“The kids that are at the Children’s Home Society are not there of their own doing. They’re there by somebody else’s actions. So, we’re here to support them, raise money for the kids at the home,” Roger Sherman said.

Poker run is to support struggling kids, Children’s Home Society

In addition to the attendees winning prizes, the poker run is about supporting the kids.

“That’s really why we’re here. Dave’s got a real passion for this in his heart and to get this many people to show up. It’s a short little ride. It’s a really big payout for the small little ride as it is. And it’s just a great thing,” Roger Sherman said.

More importantly, A.B.A.T.E. is working to help quell the stereotype that bikers are immoral and lawless.

“It lets other people know that the stereotype [isn’t true]. We’re not greasy rule breakers. We’re here to do good and help the community we live in,” Schultz (Iggy) added.

Poker runs are not just about card games and participating in a motorcycle ride.

“A poker run was either to raise money for your chapter or your motorcycle club. And then if somebody had a fatality or a major life changing event, then it was to raise money for that individual or that family just to help them through that. So once again, we’re all about community” Schultz (Iggy) said.

“Those Guys” hope the poker run will continue to grow and support the Children’s Home Society.

A.B.A.T.E.’s goal and purpose is to keep motorcyclists, members, and the public informed. “Those Guys” promote safe riding habits and encourage favorable legislation for motorcyclists.

This is accomplished through a monthly newsletter, e-mail alerts, and safety and education programs. A.B.A.T.E. works with the state and federal legislators to assist bikers and the general public.