47th Annual Jack Gamble Melon Run

It's the best July 4th tradition in Gainesville... The 47th Annual Jack Gamble Melon Run! 

This three-mile run hosted by the Florida Track Club is as much a part of the Fourth of July as BBQ and Fireworks. Enjoy the rolling hills on this course, where age-group winners receive a watermelon! Age groupings for awards are in 10-year increments. Refreshments (most likely more watermelon) will be served to all runners after the race.

We'll also host a 1/2 mile run for the kids. We willl also have a watermelon eating contest! After the running is complete, stick around to see the crowning of the King and Queen of the race, and also who is the fastest watermelon eater. 

Register by Thursday, June 19th at 11:59 PM, if you want the option of selecting a tank top. Race tank tops will not be available to anyone who registers after June 18, 2025. Price increases for the no tank-top registration after June 19th and increases again after June 27th. If you do not attend, race tanks will not be held.

FTC Members: Please log in to your FTC account and check this page for the code for discounted entry. A box to enter the discount code is on the page where you provide your payment information. If you are not a member yet, you can join the Florida Track Club and participate in the numerous races and track meets we have planned this year. Individual yearly membership is only $40, family membership $65, and student membership $25.  Senior membership (65+) is $25 for individuals and $40 for a family. Please email us to set up Senior membership. See the full FTC Schedule below (7 free races and 4 with discounts each year). 

Age-based pricing: Children 12 and under have a reduced entry fee of $25 for regular registration and $15 for the 'no tank top' option. The reduced price will be automatically applied based on the child's age on July 4, 2025. Your children are eligible for the additional member discount if you have a family membership.

The race starts at 8:00 AM at Albert "Ray" Massey Westside Park
1001 NW 34th Street Gainesville, FL 32605

PLEASE PARK IN THE LARGE PARKING LOT ON THE WEST SIDE OF THE PARK OFF OF NW 34th STREET.

Bib pick-up will begin at 7 AM at Westside Park in front of the pool near the finish line (on the east side of the park). Race day registration is ONLY online. Up through 7:30 AM on race day, you may register on your computer or phone and then ask for your bib. There will be NO human being that will assist you with registration. We WILL NOT be handling race day registration. We will not accept paper registration or in-person payments.