Unlike the previous two Laughlin rallies that were plagued by moisture-stealing heat, this year's event was just hot enough to be pleasant. We rolled into town Wednesday, April 24, 2002 and did some product testing of the blackjack, roulette, and poker tables at the local casinos before the River Run launched into full swing Thursday.
The three days that followed were a solid blast. We made our rounds of the vendor booths during the day and watched the endless parade of iron horses that rumbled up and down the strip at night. When the crowds grew a bit thick, we would just take a break at the Camel Roadhouse or knock back a cold one at the Rainbow Bar in the Flamingo Hotel.
The Doobie Brothers gave a concert Friday night, and if you strolled down the river walk, you could pass right behind the stage. There was enough going on to keep us magazine guys busy day or night. What we weren't able to do was go to Oatman or rent a jet ski for some waterborne riding. But then again, there's always next year.