48th Annual Jack Gamble Melon Run
Sat July 4, 2026
Gainesville, FL 32605 US
Description 🍉 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. 🇺🇸🍉
