This Saturday, the Bay County Motorcycle Foundation hit the streets for the 10th Annual JROTC Scholarship Poker Run, an event quickly becoming a tradition in Bay County, Florida. Dozens of bikers saddled up and revved their engines for a great cause: raising money to support local Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC Scholarships).
But this wasn’t just any ride—it was a tribute to the life of 19-year-old Dylan Corbin, who tragically passed away from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident back in 2015. Dylan, a student at Deane Bozeman High School, was a dedicated member of the JROTC program, and the ride in his memory has helped fund scholarships for Bay County students ever since.
Honouring Dylan’s Legacy In JROTC Scholarships
For many bikers who participated, this event was more than just a fun day out on the road. It was an opportunity to honour the memory of a young man who loved the biker community and served as a reminder of the importance of community support.
Michael S. Husava, one of the bikers who participated in the event, shared his thoughts: “He was a biker, supported a community. A lot of us are veterans, and we thought it was a good cause to support our Bay County Junior ROTC.” The event serves as a gathering point for veterans and other community members who want to make a difference in the lives of young people.
Dylan’s connection to the JROTC program makes this fundraiser even more meaningful. The funds raised each year go directly to scholarships that help students continue their JROTC education, purchase uniforms, and attend events that are crucial to their development.
Supporting the Future of JROTC Scholarships
Mike Fennewald, President of the EOD Motorcycle Club Chapter, echoed Husava’s sentiment, emphasizing the significance of the event: “It’s a worthy cause. It’s so important that the kids, especially high school age, realize there are people in the community who appreciate what they do. It takes commitment to be part of the ROTC or JROTC, and events like this keep them funded for uniforms and other needs.“
These scholarships are more than just money—they are a sign of support for a group of students who dedicate themselves to a program that teaches discipline, leadership, and patriotism. “This is very big. Very big,” said Aiden Pinkard, Executive Officer of the Mosley High School JROTC. “There are many seniors who have benefited from this scholarship, and I just want to give a huge thank you to the Corbin family for their continued support of this event.“
The Route and the Fun
The 10th Annual Poker Run kicked off with a ceremony by the Mosley High School JROTC, who proudly presented the colours at Annie’s Hideaway in Lynn Haven. From there, the bikers hit the road, travelling through St. Joe Beach, Port St. Joe, Parker, and Springfield, and finally reaching the finish line at Moseys in Panama City. At each stop along the route, participants drew a playing card in the hopes of forming the best poker hand.
The event was not only about the ride but also about community camaraderie and a chance to meet new people who share a common passion for supporting the JROTC program. The bikers celebrated the day knowing they were riding for something much bigger than themselves.
A Successful Day for the Cause
Saturday’s event raised an impressive $8,000 for JROTC programs in Bay County, a result that shows the power of community engagement and the love and respect people have for the Corbin family and the JROTC students. With the continued success of this event, officials hope it will grow even more in the years to come.
If you’d like to contribute to this cause, donations can be made at Ameris Bank in Panama City or Panama City Beach. Simply ask the Branch Manager for details on how you can help support JROTC students in Bay County.
Looking Ahead
The 10th Annual JROTC Scholarship Poker Run was a perfect reminder of the strength of the community and the importance of supporting our future leaders. As the event continues to grow each year, it’s clear that the spirit of giving and remembrance lives on. Whether you’re a biker, a supporter, or someone looking to make a difference, the Poker Run is a great way to honour Dylan Corbin’s legacy and help young students on their journey.
This year’s ride raised much-needed funds for JROTC scholarships, but the most important takeaway is the sense of unity and shared purpose among the riders and supporters. Together, they are building a brighter future for the next generation, one poker hand at a time.
For more updates on the annual Poker Run and other community events, be sure to follow Pokerbol on social media. Stay connected for details on upcoming rides, fundraising efforts, and how you can get involved in supporting local causes like the JROTC scholarships
Image and Content Courtesy: Yahoo News
