Boyne Thunder Event Safety Rules

Safety of the participants, spectators, host communities and harbors, as well as the well-being of those with whom we share the waterways, is of utmost importance to the Boyne Thunder Poker Run event.

Failure to comply with the following rules will result in disqualification from the Boyne Thunder Poker Run. Disqualification means that poker cards will not be accepted at the final event and you will not participate in the remainder of the activities. There will be no refunds issued for disqualified entries.

  1. This is a poker run and is not a race. At no time during a poker run will racing occur between participants. All jurisdictional speed limits must be adhered to at all times.
  2. Each participant must have in-force valid and sufficient liability insurance for the boat. Failure to produce current insurance means your boat will not be allowed in the event.
  3. All participants, including passengers and crew, must sign the Event Waiver and wear identification wristbands during the entire event. If we do not have your signature, you may not participate.
  4. On-time attendance at the Saturday morning Driver’s Meeting by the driver is mandatory. You must sign-in ahead of time and be available for the roll call attendance.
  5. There will be a sign-in sheet for drivers at the entrance to the tented area. Signature is mandatory or the registrant will be disqualified. There will also be voice attendance taken at the end of the captians’ meeting.
  6. Official colored identification stickers must be attached to the boat and must be visible from the upper side of the hull.
  7. The Pace Boat assigned to you for the opening parade laps cannot be passed or “crowded” at any time.
  8. All boats are to follow their pace boat through Lake Charlevoix. Any boat passing their pace boat group will forfeit their card hand.
  9. It is recommended that first time Boyne Thunder participants start at the back of their assigned starting group and remain there until exiting the channel at Charlevoix.
  10. A safe clearance distance must be maintained at all times between boats while running. A minimum radius of 200 feet around each boat is recommended.
  11. Absolutely no alcohol will be consumed by anyone on board or visible on board participating boats until the completion of the event.
  12. Every boat must comply with current USCG/CCG construction and safety requirements and carry on board safety equipment.
  13. Life vests must be worn by everyone on board at all times when the boat is in motion. It is recommended that ignition safety tethers be used if available.
  14. All local fueling must be done by Michigan licensed fuel suppliers.
  15. VHF and cell communications equipment is recommended to be on board and should be in working condition; monitor VHF Channel 68 for updates.
  16. Changing lanes must be done only when it can be done safely. Cutting off other boats at any time is unsafe. A running lane must be chosen and adhered to.
  17. No one may sit on top of a seat or sun pad when the boat is on plane.