The Gambler Last Man Standing
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The Gambler Last Man Standing : Feb 28, 2026, Pelham, AL
The Gambler is a lap-style last-man-standing running event at Oak Mountain State Park, Pelham, Alabama (200 Terrace Dr). The course is a clearly marked 2-mile loop, mostly trails with short road sections and a lakeside portion. Each loop has about 183 feet of elevation gain. The event is rain or shine; competitors are advised to carry lighting for low-light laps. Race-day check-in is at the White Oak Pavilion. Park entry requires a $5 cash fee. Participants must be 19 or older.
Format, prizes, and key rules
Runners must complete each 2-mile lap within a 40-minute limit or be eliminated. Each completed lap earns one poker chip worth $1, up to 50 chips (equal to 100 miles). Cash-out is allowed only at specific milestone laps; cashing out removes the runner from the competition. Cash-out opportunities:
- 5 laps - 10 miles
- 10 laps - 20 miles
- 15 laps - 30 miles
- 20 laps - 40 miles
- 25 laps - 50 miles
- 30 laps - 60 miles
- 35 laps - 70 miles
- 40 laps - 80 miles
- 45 laps - 90 miles
- 50 laps - 100 miles
After lap 50 the rules change: no more poker chips or cash-outs, pacers are not allowed, and each subsequent lap’s time limit decreases by two minutes per lap. To win the Last Man Standing Bucket, a competitor must start and complete the final winning lap solo. Awards include finisher merchandise at 14 miles, 28 miles, 50 miles, and 100 miles. The event provides a full-service aid station at the start/finish; this is a cup-less event so runners must bring their own cup or bottle. No refunds are offered; entries may be transferred or deferred. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
