Anecdotal as this observation is, several friends in Florida told me they’ve never seen more boats on the water than they did last weekend. That makes perfect sense. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Center for Disease Control-advised practice of social-distancing makes boating the perfect escape from crowds and—frankly—the panicky madness that has engulfed us.

Moving forward with your 2020 event plans—at least for now—is your best course. Photo from the 2019 Four Horsemen Poker Run courtesy/copyright Pete Boden/Shoot 2 Thrill Pix.

But what about upcoming go-fast boating events such as poker runs, which typically involve large-group parties and banquets? Should you still be registering for them? After reaching out to members of the American Poker Run Association Facebook group, I have an answer.

Yes. Here’s why.

Most event organizers will provide refunds in one form or another if they have to cancel their happenings. In the case of the Florida Powerboat Club, which has a run headed to the Florida Keys this weekend, that means you’ll get a full credit toward your next FPC event. Greg Harris, who co-organizes the Jacksonville River Rally and Poker Run with his longtime girlfriend Yvonne Aleman, said they will supply complete refunds—if necessary as their event is set for May 14-17—minus whatever transaction fees are involved.

“We have refrained from expenditures for the moment to get a feel for the situation before advancing monies,” said Harris.

Smart, responsible and decidedly not panicky thinking.

“If we cancel, we will offer full refunds,” said Anthony Scioli of Elite Poker Runs, LLC, which has three events slated starting with the Erie Poker Run, June 26-27, in Erie, Pa.

Read More: The Boating Season Isn’t Lost

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