Delice James Wins One VI Poker Run
Delice James was crowned champion of the fifth One VI Poker Run after an island‑hopping loop across the Virgin Islands on Sunday, June 28, 2026, which began and ended at Paradise Bar and Lounge in Cane Garden Bay. Organisers estimate more than 100 boats and roughly 5,000 people took part; this year’s proceeds will equip the computer room at His Majesty’s Prison and top prizes ranged from $8,000 to $2,000.
Delice James was crowned champion of the fifth One VI Poker Run after crews completed an island‑hopping loop across the British Virgin Islands on Sunday, June 28, 2026. The popular powerboating competition began and concluded at Paradise Bar and Lounge in world‑famous Cane Garden Bay, drawing crews and onlookers to the shores for a day of speed, skill and seaside camaraderie.
Crews followed a predetermined route and stopped at five waterfront locations to draw cards, aiming to assemble the best five‑card poker hand by the finish. Stop locations for this year’s loop included Foxy's Taboo on Jost van Dyke, Trellis Bay Market on Beef Island, C.B. Romney Tortola Pier Park and Ocean's 7 on Peter Island, with Paradise Bar and Lounge serving as both the starting and ending point.
The scale of the event grew again this year. According to Archer, organisers estimate that more than 100 boats took part and roughly 5,000 people attended as participants and spectators. Archer told VINO the One VI Poker Run is designed to be inclusive, offering a fashion show, an after‑party and games throughout the day so people could engage whether by boat, playing poker, or simply enjoying the festivities on shore.
Prizes were significant this year: Delice James won the top prize of $8,000, Alexa Hodge finished second with $4,000, and Kennard Dawson placed third, receiving $2,000, figures reported by organisers and published by VINO. Organisers acknowledged that running a multi‑stop maritime event presents logistical challenges. "As with any large‑scale event, coordinating logistics across multiple stops and managing timing throughout the day presented challenges," Archer said, adding that those issues were addressed through teamwork, communication and the dedication of the committee, volunteers and partners.
Despite the scale and complexity, organisers reported the run concluded without incident — a result they credited to experienced crews and careful planning. The One VI Poker Run operates as the charitable arm of Black Point Entertainment Group, a non‑profit created and directed by Dr Michael A.
Turnbull, and proceeds support the group's charitable activities. Archer said this year’s proceeds will be used to equip the computer room at His Majesty’s Prison, an initiative aimed at providing educational and rehabilitative opportunities for inmates. For residents, the Poker Run is more than a race: it’s a summertime gathering that brings boaters, hospitality workers and visitors together, boosting trade for bars, restaurants and vendors at the checkpoints.
With strong turnout and smooth execution this year, organisers and participants expressed optimism about building the event further. Archer said the committee will continue to review every aspect of the Poker Run to improve logistics, enhance the participant experience and grow the event’s positive impact on the community.
As Delice James takes the 2026 title, many in the BVI are already looking ahead to next year’s run as an opportunity to showcase the Territory’s coastal communities, maritime culture and charitable spirit.
Primary source: VINO