Poker Run victory caps decade-long commitment for Barmedman rider

WHEN Pat Cummins’ name was called out as the winner of the Best Poker Hand at this year’s Junee Poker Run, the applause that followed was loud — but for those who know him, it was also deeply fitting.

The Barmedman local claimed the coveted title at the 21st annual ride with a rare four of a kind — four threes — taking home the $1000 cash prize following a long, sweltering day on the road.

Coincidentally, last year’s winning hand was also four of a kind.

READ MORE: Poker Run thunders through the Riverina

Yet beyond the odds and the prize money, Pat’s win carries a much deeper meaning.

A quiet regular of the event, Pat has been taking part in the Junee Poker Run for nearly a decade.

Year after year, he makes the journey from Barmedman not for accolades or attention, but for the mateship, the cause, and the powerful sense of community the ride fosters.

His wife, Jody Cummons, says the Poker Run has long been a highlight on Pat’s calendar.

“I think he’s gone on the Poker Run for about eight to ten years, though he might have missed one here and there,” she said.

Poker Run vice president Al Smith congratulates Cummins on stage | Photo: © The Junee Bulletin

What makes Pat’s commitment all the more remarkable is his role at home.

He has been Jody’s full-time career since 2007, after the pair — who have been together since 1993 — faced significant health challenges that now leave Jody largely bed‑ridden.

For a time, Pat even modified his bike to ensure Jody could still share in the experience.

“I went with him a couple of times,” Jody said. “He put a trike rear end on his bike so I could ride with him. But now I’m more or less bed‑ridden.”

Still, every year, Pat makes the ride — and this year, he had a feeling his cards might just be the winning hand.

“He rang me a few times during the day saying he’d pulled a three at every stop,” Jody laughed. “Then he told me someone had put an asterisk next to his name and said, ‘I think I’ve won — no one else has an asterisk!’”

His instincts were spot-on. During the evening’s Blues Night celebration at the Junee Showgrounds, Pat’s hand was declared the best of the day.

Poker Run president Jen Parsons presents Cummins with his winnings | Photo: © The Junee Bulletin

Poker Run publicity officer Jaydan Duck said the win felt especially deserved.

“Four threes might not sound like the flashiest hand, but they were unbeatable on the day,” he said.

“More importantly, Pat’s story really reflects what this event is about — loyalty, resilience, and people who come back year after year because they believe in what it stands for.”

“In poker and in life, it’s not always about the highest cards — it’s about having the right ones at the right time.”

Cummins was ecstatic with his win | Photo: © The Junee Bulletin

Duck said it was heartening to see someone so deeply committed to both his family and the event take out the win.

“The Poker Run has always been about more than just the cards,” he said. “It’s about people, and Pat is one of those people who truly embodies the spirit of this ride.”

Now in its 21st year, the Junee Poker Run continues to raise critical funds for Can Assist Junee, which helps locals affected by cancer through practical and financial support.

READ MORE: Poker Run thunders through the Riverina

For Pat, this year’s win wasn’t just about luck — it was the result of many years supporting a cause and community he holds close to his heart.

And for those in the crowd, it was a reminder that some of the best victories are earned quietly, with unwavering dedication and a lot of heart.

Final fundraising totals for the 2026 Poker Run are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.