Get the motors runnin' for 2016's Chase the Ace Rally and Poker Run

9/6/12- Poker Run at Catsfield. ENGSUS00120121106094920

The annual event, to be held over the weekend of June 3-5, is organised by The Norsemen Motor Cycle Club (MCC), a Sussex based club of diverse members who own all types of bikes, from ‘pocket rockets’ to ‘customs’ and ‘trikes’. Their club house is based in Hastings.

Now in its 11th year the rally attracts bikers from all over the UK and Europe keen to chase the Ace and enjoy a weekend of music and fun while raising money for local charities.

Norsemen President Martin says this year promises to be bigger and better than ever. “Each year we organise the ‘Chase the Ace Rally’ and ‘Poker Run’ to raise money for charity.

“The rally runs from Friday June 3 to Sunday June 5, with all the usual things that a rally has to offer - good company, camping, bands, food, and of course lots of bikes!”

The Poker Run takes place on the Saturday and bikers ride to five stops along a designated route; in what ever order they prefer.

The stops are: Camber Castle pub, Camber; Six Bells pub, Chiddingley: Eight Bells pub, Hawkhurst; Green Man pub, Lewes Road, Ringmer; Rally site at Squirrel Field, Battle. At each stop riders pick a card and once five cards have been collected they are handed in to the adjudicators. At the end of the day the person with the highest Poker hand wins. There are three cash prizes on offer: 1st place wins £100, 2nd place £50 and the third place winner scoops £25.

Martin added: “Our charity for 2016 is Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare, a charity which takes in 1500 animals per year and provides care for them until they are found loving homes.”

For those who want to take full advantage of the weekend, camping has been arranged at a new venue this year, Squirrel Field, North Trade Road, Battle, TN33 5LJ, at £15 per person.

The Rally Site will also host a wealth of entertainment, including live bands plus support on two nights.

On Friday (June 3) ‘Snakebyte’ will perform and on Saturday (June 4) White Coast Rebels take to the stage.

In the Arena there will be Best Bike and Best Trike competitions (with prizes), Street, Chop and Custom Bike displays, entertainers and various trade stalls. There’s on-site catering offering a variety of food and drinks.

All are welcome and Martin says to remember the event is not a race and urges those who take part to please drive carefully, adding: “It’s an action packed weekend in the beautiful county of Sussex.”