Rye Scout Fundraiser Strikes Gold with $13,000 Texas Hold’Em Tournament Win
A spirited Texas Hold’Em tournament fundraiser held on Friday, January 30, 2026, at the Wainwright House in Rye, New York, generated approximately $13,000 in net proceeds to support vital infrastructure and equipment upgrades for local Scout reservations. The 22nd annual “Two Guys” Invitational drew nearly 60 participants, including poker enthusiasts, scout leaders, parents, alumni, and friends of the scouting community.
A Tradition of Support for Greater Hudson Valley Scouting
Founded two decades ago by Rye residents Bill Langham and Paul Knudsvig, the tournament has become a cornerstone of fundraising for the Greater Hudson Valley Council. The event’s founders, affectionately known as “two guys,” remain actively involved in scouting today. Over the past 22 years, the “Two Guys” Invitational has collectively raised over $123,000, directly benefiting the camps through investments in essential resources. These include staff cabins, an accessible fishing dock, STEM supplies, trail blazes, and crucial outdoor equipment.
Funds Targeted for Adirondack Wilderness Access
This year’s proceeds will be specifically allocated to the replacement of a shuttle bus for the Curtis S. Read Scout Reservation, a sprawling 1,000-acre camp nestled in the Adirondack wilderness. The reservation’s geographically dispersed facilities necessitate reliable transportation for scouts and staff. The Agatha A. Durland Scout Reservation will also benefit from the fundraising efforts. Both reservations are named in honor of prominent Rye residents and serve as pivotal locations for summer camps, unit hiking, camping, and a wide range of scouting activities throughout the region.
Carballo Claims Victory in Historic Tournament Run
The tournament saw fierce competition, culminating in a decisive victory for Chris Carballo, the current scoutmaster of Rye Troop 2. Carballo achieved a historic feat, becoming the first player to win not only the champion trophy but also the first prize in the Scouter Division and the coveted “Hit Man” award for eliminating the most opponents. Andy Malhotra was recognized with the “Walking Back to Houston” hiking stick as the first player eliminated from the tournament.
Friends of Rye Scouting: A Multifaceted Support System
Beyond organizing the annual tournament, Friends of Rye Scouting provides comprehensive support to local scouting units. This includes supplying equipment for Rye Boy Scout Troop 2 and Cub Scout Pack 2 – both chartered by Christ’s Church Rye – administering need-based scholarships through the Hugh E. O’Reilly Memorial Scholarship Fund, and fostering a vibrant alumni association for former scouts and scouters in the area.
The success of the 22nd annual “Two Guys” Invitational underscores the enduring commitment of the Rye community to fostering the next generation of scouts and ensuring the continued vitality of these cherished outdoor programs.
