The OPP is advising boaters on the St. Lawrence River to take extra care on Saturday.
An annual poker run is happening with high performance boats beginning in Gananoque, stops at Ivy Lea, Wolfe Island and Brockville and returning to Gananoque. It starts at 10:30 a.m. and should end by 5:00 p.m, according to the OPP.
Police say this is not considered a race, operators are still required to obey reduced speed and wake zones, but some of these boats can reach speeds well in excess of 100 kilometres per hour. Some parts of the route are very busy and congested channels within the Thousand Islands area. OPP is warning small craft operators and others to be aware of these fast moving boats that will be passing through the area in both directions.
The OPP also says they are committed to providing high visibility police patrols and enforcement to ensure safety and security of the boating public and event participants.
The OPP is working with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Canada Border Services Agency, Brockville Police, the Canadian Coast Guard and the organizing agencies to provide a safe and secure event.
