BIG Al’s Poke Run got a massive send off in February with about 9000 car lovers attending the final event and helping to raise $25,000 for charity.
Organiser Ray Hunt said 700 cars and trucks were on show at Perry Lakes Reserve and 450 cars took part in the family car borne treasure hunt.
“Around 100 volunteers ran the event, including 80 UWA students who were raising money for UniCamp for Kids,” he said.
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READ NOW“We are still getting back deposits and paying bills, but I estimate $25,000 was raised on the day.”
It was decided this year’s poker run would be the last after founder Alan “Big Al” Erdman died in June last year at age 64.
Attendees took to Facebook to express how much fun they had at the event.
“I came with the DeLorean, I know it was not a pre-1978 car or a hot rod but it was great to be accepted at the event. Had the best time ever,” David Parody wrote.
“Thank you for this great event and to all the volunteers and organisers. Best car event in Perth.”
Wayne Needham Walsh wrote it was an “an awesome day (with) lots of beautiful cars there. Big Al would have loved it.”
Norman Rickwood wrote he hoped to see it continue.
“Awesome day great to see all the cars and support. I have been coming to Big Al’s since the first opening and have been to every event since. Maybe something will continue in honour of everybody’s hard work.”
Mr Hunt described Mr Erdman as being a “simple guy” but “big hearted, soft and gentle.”
The format of this year’s poker run was deliberately kept the same as last year’s which was the last one Big Al was involved in before he died.
Mr Hunt said it was kept the same as a tribute.
“It’s not a car show, it’s history,” he said.