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2nd Annual Deb Unger Benefit Poker Run Combines Adventure, Local History, and a Great Cause
ATWOOD, Kan. | NWKS Radio
A day of adventure, beautiful northwest Kansas scenery, fascinating local history, and giving back to a great cause is coming to Rawlins County on Saturday, November 7th!
The 2nd Annual Deb Unger Benefit Poker Run will take participants on a unique, approximately 75-mile journey through the countryside surrounding Atwood, Kansas. Unlike traditional poker runs featuring motorcycles or classic cars, this event welcomes UTVs, ATVs, and Jeeps for a fun-filled off-road adventure, all while raising money for the Northwest Kansas Foundation for HOPE.
Greg Unger recently visited with Kristina from NWKS Radio to share the story behind the event, what participants can expect this year, and why this fundraiser means so much to his family.
A Special Tribute to Deb Unger
The poker run was created in memory of Greg's sister-in-law, Deb Unger, who passed away in March 2025 after a decade-long battle with cancer.
Following her passing, Greg learned that the Northwest Kansas Foundation for HOPE had provided assistance to his brother and his family during Deb's illness. Wanting to give back to an organization that had helped his family, Greg began thinking about a fundraiser that would also honor something Deb loved.
"Deb used to love going on side-by-side trips," Greg shared. "We'd been at Oak Canyon, all over, and we'd been out in the mountains all over. She just loved this."
That love of adventure became the inspiration for the Deb Unger Benefit Poker Run, which is now returning for its second year.
Exploring the Hidden Treasures of Northwest Kansas
One of the things that makes this poker run so special is that it isn't just about the ride. It's also an opportunity to discover some of the fascinating places and history tucked away in the northwest Kansas countryside.
Greg explained that many people only experience the region from the highways, never realizing what lies beyond the pavement.
"There's just a whole bunch of stuff once you get in the country that you never see, you never go to," he said.
This year's route will include several historical stops, with opportunities to learn about the people and events that helped shape the area.
Among the highlights is a trip along the winding Creek Road southwest of Atwood, which Greg says has approximately 44 turns. The route will lead participants to the historic Dewey Ranch, the site associated with the infamous Dewey-Berry feud.
Organizers have received permission from a landowner to visit the property, where participants will hear more about the historic confrontation that became part of northwest Kansas history.
The journey will also include a stop at the historic Stevens Chapel before continuing toward another unusual destination near Achilles, south of the area between Atwood and Oberlin.
There, participants will have the opportunity to explore a cave with local stories connecting it to the notorious outlaw Belle Starr. Greg says organizers have secured permission to access the privately owned pasture where the cave is located.
These stops offer a rare opportunity to experience local history firsthand while enjoying a scenic ride through the countryside.
Chili, Cinnamon Rolls, and a Silent Auction
After completing the ride, participants will return to Atwood for an evening meal featuring a northwest Kansas favorite: chili and cinnamon rolls!
Greg says the meal will be prepared by local church ladies, adding another special community touch to the event.
A silent auction will also be held to raise additional funds for the Northwest Kansas Foundation for HOPE.
And even if off-roading isn't your thing, you're still invited to join the fun! Community members can attend the dinner and silent auction without participating in the poker run.
Event Details
Saturday, November 7, 2026
Atwood, Kansas | Staging area behind Vap's
Registration opens at 10:45 a.m. | Ride departs at noon sharp
$40 per vehicle, including dinner
$10 for dinner and silent auction without the ride
All proceeds benefit the Northwest Kansas Foundation for HOPE
There will be room for participants to park trailers and unload their vehicles near the starting location.
Giving Back to an Organization That Makes a Difference
For Greg and his family, the most important part of the day is knowing that the money raised will help other northwest Kansas families facing difficult times.
The Northwest Kansas Foundation for HOPE provides assistance to individuals and families affected by cancer, offering support when it is needed most.
During the interview, Greg emphasized that 100% of the proceeds from the event will go to the foundation.
It's a cause that has a personal connection to his family, and one that continues to make a difference throughout the region.
Whether you're an off-road enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who wants to support a great local cause, the 2nd Annual Deb Unger Benefit Poker Run offers a memorable way to spend a Saturday.
Grab your UTV, ATV, or Jeep, bring along some friends, and enjoy a day of adventure while helping northwest Kansas families. And don't forget to save room for the chili and cinnamon rolls!
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