Lake Mitchell HOBO sponsors an annual family-friendly Poker Run contest to support the Scholarship Fund. Contestants pay an entry fee, then travel by boat around the lake to several dealers where they draw their hands.  Dealers and players decorate their locations and boats with fun-themed decorations and costumes.  The winning top three hands are awarded a cash prize.   In addition to a great day of laughter and fun on the lake, the event raises thousands of dollars for the HOBO Student Scholarship/Teacher Grant Program.

2026 Poker Run Breaks All Previous Records

There was a record turnout for the 2026 Poker Run which paid homage to the 250th birthday of the USA. George Washington gave the signal to fire the canon at the start of the event.  By the end of the day nearly 600 players had visited eight dealer stops hosted by 100 volunteers and sponsors and had raised thousands of dollars for local high school scholarships and teacher grants.

2026 Poker Run Results

WINNING HANDS:
1st Place - Robin Wilson
2nd Place - Mary Grace McCormick
​3rd Place - Shannon Miller

​DEALERS
Birth of a Nation - Marie Butts & Karen Brown
Freedom & Service--Doug & Roxanne Martin
America Dream—Andrew & Jennifer George
Sports & Competition—Kevin & Michelle Wales 
American Music--Jason & Kelly Franklin
The Great Outdoors—Cameron & Kevin Smitherman 
Space & Exploration—Jason & Kelsie Elrod
America Today—Tommy & Ann Glasscock
ORGANIZING COMMITTEE
Co-Chairs - Melanie Dickinson & Abigail Dickinson
Vickie Griffith
Angie Scarbrough
Marie Greene

STUDENT VOLUNTEERS
Sydney Schneider, Sayde Hines, Abril Maza-Mendez, Emily Gilliland, Giselle Vela, Caroline McCormick, Abigail Dickinson, Rachel Cabrera, Mary Grace McCormick, Sam Sides 

OTHER VOLUNTEERS
More than 100 people worked to make the event the success that it was.  Thanks to each and every one who donated hours of time, energy, physical assistance, creativity, and moral support!

Thank you to each of the generous sponsors below whose contributions helped bring life and fun to the
​2026 Poker Run
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