Texas Hold'Em Tournament Raises $13K for Rye Scouting

A high-stakes poker tournament in Rye, New York, brought together nearly 60 players on Friday, January 30, 2026, to benefit local scouting programs. The 22nd annual “Two Guys” Invitational Texas Hold’Em Tournament, held at the Wainwright House, raised approximately $13,000 to support vital infrastructure and equipment for two scout reservations.

A Tradition of Support

The tournament was founded 22 years ago by Rye residents Bill Langham and Paul Knudsvig, who remain actively involved in scouting. Since its inception, the event has generated over $123,000 for the Greater Hudson Valley Council, funding improvements like staff cabins, an accessible fishing dock, STEM supplies, and trail maintenance.

This Year’s Focus: Mobility in the Wilderness

This year’s fundraising efforts will specifically address a critical need at the Curtis S. Read Scout Reservation: the replacement of a shuttle bus. The 1,000-acre Adirondack wilderness camp features facilities spread across a considerable distance, making reliable transportation essential.

Did You Know? The Curtis S. Read and Agatha A. Durland Scout reservations are named in honor of prominent Rye residents.

A Night of Competition and Camaraderie

Chris Carballo, the current scoutmaster of Rye Troop 2, emerged as the overall champion. He achieved a unique victory, also winning the Scouter Division and the “Hit Man” award for eliminating the most players from the competition. Andy Malhotra received the “Walking Back to Houston” hiking stick as the first player eliminated.

Expert Insight: Events like the “Two Guys” Invitational demonstrate the enduring power of community support for youth organizations. Combining a popular pastime like poker with a charitable cause creates a sustainable funding model and fosters a sense of shared purpose.

Beyond the tournament itself, Friends of Rye Scouting provides ongoing support to local Scouting America units, including Rye Boy Scout Troop 2 and Cub Scout Pack 2, both chartered by Christ’s Church Rye. They also administer need-based scholarships through the Hugh E. O’Reilly Memorial Scholarship Fund and maintain an alumni network for former scouts and scouters.

Looking Ahead

The success of this year’s tournament could encourage continued fundraising efforts for the Read Scout Reservation and other scouting initiatives. It is likely that Friends of Rye Scouting will continue to organize similar events in the future. The ongoing support from the community may allow for further improvements to the facilities and programs offered to scouts in the Greater Hudson Valley Council. A possible next step could be exploring additional fundraising avenues to supplement the tournament proceeds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who founded the “Two Guys” Invitational?

Rye residents Bill Langham and Paul Knudsvig founded the tournament 22 years ago and remain active in scouting today.

How much money was raised at the 2026 tournament?

The event raised approximately $13,000 in net proceeds.

What will the funds be used for?

The funds will go towards the replacement of a shuttle bus for the Read Scout Reservation.

How important are community events like this to the future of scouting?

Texas Hold’Em Tournament Raises $13K for Rye Scouting