48th Annual Jack Gamble Melon Run

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. 🇺🇸🍉