Thanks to its organizers, volunteers and generous group of go-fast powerboat owners at the Lake of the Ozarks, the Support Our Troops Poker Run, which provides a day on the water for active retired United States military members, celebrated its 19th anniversary last month. The Big Thunder Marine-produced isn’t the largest summer event on the Central Missouri waterway, but it is among the most cherished.
The new event will operate from the docks at Shady Gators. Photo courtesy/copyright Lake Shots Photography
So why not do something similar for first-responders?
That a question MTI vice-president Taylor Scism has been asking herself for some time. And it led to a new addition this year’s Lake of the Ozark dubbed “Shootout Heroes On The Water—Honoring Those Who Protect Our Communities.”
Open to all first-responders interested in powerboat rides, the event is set for Monday, August 24, and will be operated out of Shady Gators, which is adjacent to the Camden On The Lake Resort.
The Monday addition has significant context in Shootout history.
“The original Shootout was started to benefit first-responders, so what better way to honor them then to bring it full circle and do it here at the Ozarks during Shootout week?” Scism explained. “They do so much for us boaters and the community. It’s time to give back to them.” Leah Martin, the executive director of the Lake of the Ozarks happening, said individual first-responders will be able to sign up for the event through their individual departments.
Powerboat owners interested in providing rides can reach to the Shootout organizers via email at info@lotoshootout.com