48th Annual Jack Gamble Melon Run
When is 48th Annual Jack Gamble Melon Run?
48th Annual Jack Gamble Melon Run takes place on Saturday, July 4, 2026 in Gainesville, FL.
What distances does 48th Annual Jack Gamble Melon Run offer?
48th Annual Jack Gamble Melon Run offers 2 events: 3 mile Run (With Tank Top), 3 Mile Run (No Tank Top).
| Event | Distance | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 mile Run (With Tank Top) | 3.0 mi | $35.00 | Register |
| 3 Mile Run (No Tank Top) | — | $25.00 | Register |
How much does 48th Annual Jack Gamble Melon Run cost?
Registration for 48th Annual Jack Gamble Melon Run starts at $25.00. Prices vary by event distance.
Where is 48th Annual Jack Gamble Melon Run held?
48th Annual Jack Gamble Melon Run is held in Gainesville, FL at 1001 NW 34th Street.
About 48th Annual Jack Gamble Melon Run
🍉 Gainesville’s Favorite Fourth of July Tradition
Start your Independence Day with 3 miles, rolling hills, and a slice of watermelon at the finish.
The Melon Run is one of the Florida Track Club's largest events of the year and as much a part of July 4th as BBQ and fireworks. This community favorite brings runners of all ages together for a festive, fun, and slightly hilly celebration.
🍉 The Race
• 3-mile rolling course
• Age-group awards in 10-year increments
• Age-group winners receive a watermelon
• Post-race refreshments (yes, more watermelon)
👑 Bonus Events
• Free ½-mile kids run
• Crowning of the Melon Run King and Queen after the races
👕 Registration Details
Register by June 19 at 11:59 PM to select a race tank top.
• No tank tops available after June 19, 2025
• Price (no tank option) increases after June 19
• Price increases again after June 27
• Race tanks will not be held if you do not attend
👟 Youth Pricing (12 & Under)
• $25 regular registration
• $15 no-tank option
Pricing automatically adjusts based on age on July 4, 2025.
Children receive the additional discount with a family membership.
📍 Race Day Information
Start Time: 8:00 AM
Location: Albert “Ray” Massey Westside Park
1001 NW 34th Street
Gainesville, FL 32605
Parking: Use the large lot on the west side of the park off NW 34th Street.
Bib Pick-Up: Begins at 7:00 a.m. in front of the pool near the finish line (east side of the park)
⚠️ Race Day Registration = Online Only
Register online through 7:30 AM on race morning using your phone or computer, then pick up your bib.
• No in-person registration assistance
• No paper forms
• No in-person payments
💳 FTC Member Discount
FTC Members:
Log in to your FTC account and click the "Local Races" tab for the discount code. Enter that code on the payment page during registration.
Not a member yet? Join the Florida Track Club and take part in 9 free races and 3 discounted events each year.
Annual Membership Rates:
• Individual: $40
• Family: $65
• Student: $25
• Senior (65+): $25 individual / $40 family
(Email us to set up Senior membership.)
Three miles. Rolling hills. Watermelon at the finish.
There’s no better way to kick off the Fourth of July in Gainesville. 🇺🇸🍉