It's not poker in the traditional sense. There's little strategy, no poker faces and no betting as you go. Players won't sit about a forest-green table, but will instead sail through blue skies.


"It's an exercise in logistics," said Marie Donovan, organizer of the Coyote Country chapter of the Ninety-Nines' 14th Poker Run.

This morning, at least 40 planes are expected to zig-zag across the region, stopping briefly at a handful of area airports. At each airport, the pilot will pick up at least one playing card ---- he or she will get as many cards as playing hands purchased at the initial airport.

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One poker hand costs $3. Pilots can also purchase four hands for $10.

The event attracts pilots from the San Diego area, the Inland Empire and the Los Angeles basin. Proceeds fund scholarships for women planning careers in aviation.

The Poker Run is open to both men and women.

Pilots can start at any of six area airports, including Fallbrook, French Valley, Gillespie Field, Hemet, Oceanside and Ramona, but must finish at French Valley and be checked in no later than 2:30 p.m.

To be eligible for a prize, participants must land at five airports. Prizes include baskets and gift certificates from various shops, including Starbucks and Victoria's Secret.

"Pilots are looking to go somewhere, always looking for a destination," said Diane Barker, a flight attendant and Coyote Country member, explaining the appeal of flying from airport to airport.

Speed is not a factor in the Poker Run, Donovan said. Pilots can take leisurely flights across the region, and still be able to win ---- as long as they have strong poker hands.

Because speed is not crucial to success, rookie pilots are as likely to win as grizzled veterans.

"Some are novice pilots, like myself," Donovan said. "Some have been in powder-puff derbies ---- air races."

In 2004, 47 pilots participated, and purchased 380 poker hands. The Ninety-Nines raised $951, and netted $670 for their flying scholarships.

Source: NC Times