Binks Memorial Fun Run
The 2026 Binks Memorial Fun Run is set to return to the waters of Lake Norman June 5–6, 2026, bringing another powerful weekend of performance boating, community support, and addiction awareness to the Lake Norman boating community. Organized through Binks Addiction Awareness
, the annual event was created in memory of Travis “Binks” Binkley, who lost his life to a fentanyl overdose at just 23 years old.
What began as a deeply personal effort to honor Travis’s life has rapidly grown into one of the most meaningful charity boating events in the Southeast performance boating scene. Organizers say the mission behind the event is larger than boating itself — using the boating community to raise awareness, reduce stigma surrounding addiction, and provide support for individuals and families affected by substance abuse.
According to the organization, Binks Addiction Awareness focuses on helping individuals and families through education, outreach, mentoring, transportation support, recovery resources, and sober living initiatives throughout Iredell County and surrounding areas. Event proceeds directly benefit Restoration Road Ministry, helping fund recovery services and programs including “Travis’ House,” a sober living home created in Travis Binkley’s memory.
The Binks Memorial Fun Run itself has quickly become a standout gathering within the Lake Norman performance boating community. The event regularly attracts high-performance catamarans, offshore V-bottoms, center consoles, and custom powerboats from across the Southeast and beyond. Current registrant lists for 2026 already feature an impressive lineup of MTI, Statement, Nor-Tech, Hustler, Donzi, Cigarette, Fountain, Baja, and DCB performance boats expected to participate.
Friday evening’s festivities will feature a benefit party and fundraiser, bringing together participants, sponsors, supporters, and families before Saturday’s organized lake run. Saturday’s main event centers around the official Binks Memorial Fun Run on Lake Norman starting at Toucans, followed by dockside gatherings, catered meals, raft-ups, and social events throughout the day.
Unlike many poker runs centered purely around speed and nightlife, organizers continue emphasizing that the Binks Memorial Fun Run is intended to remain a laid-back, family-oriented boating weekend focused on connection, support, and positive impact within the boating community.
The event’s rapid growth reflects how strongly the message has resonated throughout the performance boating world. In 2024, the event raised nearly $24,000 for addiction awareness and recovery programs, while participation numbers have continued climbing each year. Organizers say registration is limited annually and encourage early signups due to growing demand.
For many participants, the Binks Memorial Fun Run represents more than just another boating weekend. It has become a reminder of the growing impact addiction has had on families and communities everywhere — and how boating enthusiasts are using their community to create awareness, support recovery efforts, and help prevent future tragedies.
With performance boats, charity fundraising, lakefront gatherings, and a mission rooted in compassion and recovery, the 2026 Binks Memorial Fun Run is once again expected to deliver one of the most meaningful boating weekends on Lake Norman.