CARP – Euchre is a pretty big deal in the Valley, one click on West Carleton Online’s search engine will show you that (literally five pages of stories). Add $800 in prize money and the sweetest trophy in card games, and it’s the biggest game in town.

The Carp Agricultural Society kicked off its monthly euchre series last Saturday (Jan. 18) and 30 tables of four-handed euchre players beat the storm to take part. And why not – there’s $800 to be won.

Organizers John Verney and Ron Burnet have been running the popular euchre series for 23 years. It’s a popular event but even 20 minutes before game time, the volunteers think it might be a slightly smaller turnout.

“Maybe the storm threat,” Verney tells West Carleton Online from the registration table high above the crowd on the Carp Agricultural Hall stage.

To put it in perspective, the first event of the monthly series is only six tables under the historic high of 36 tables which was achieved in 2019.

“Last year was our biggest year,” Verney said.

Card throwers come from McNab-Braeside, Kanata and all points in between for a crack at the $300 first prize. Second gets $200, third gets $100 and there are four prizes of $50. They also come in all ages.

“We’ve got some that are 89,” Verney said.

On top of the cash-money to be won, is pride for the overall winner. The series runs monthly for the next three months (not including last Saturday) starting at 1 p.m. on Saturdays (visit our Events Listing for dates). For the regulars that make it out each month, the Ross Craig Memorial Trophy is up for grabs for the player with the highest combined score.

For Burnett and Verney, the series is just an opportunity to come out and have some fun during the winter months.

“It’s a good organization,” Burnett said. “They treat us well, we’re good friends and it gives us a chance to spend some time together.”

“And argue and have a few beers,” Verney adds.