What is the Gambler 500?
The Gambler 500 is a 500-mile, off-road adventure rally that involves driving cheap, impractical, or customized vehicles through the country. The rally also involves picking up trash, removing abandoned vehicles, and exploring public land. It started as a grassroots event, where participants would take $500 cars and modify them for off-road driving. From the Gambler 500 website, “Gambler 500 started in Oregon 2014 by Tate Morgan and the OG Gamblers, a small group embracing cheap fun in all forms.”
About the Gambler 500
The goal of the Gambler 500 is to navigate through challenging terrains and complete a series of checkpoints, while picking up trash along the way. Trash deposit dumpsters are strategically placed to help with collection efforts. The event emphasizes creativity, resourcefulness, environmental responsibility, and a sense of adventure. The Gambler 500 has gained popularity in recent years, attracting a diverse community of automotive enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Participants often decorate and modify their cars with elaborate themes. Furthermore, an event is typically held at the end of a Gambler 500 that includes camping, live music, awards, and other activities to participate in.
Photos via Reddit user PhatDopeBomb, 2022 Tennessee Gambler 500
When is the Gambler 500?
The original Gambler 500, known as the "OG500," usually takes place in mid-July, but Gambler 500 events can take place year-round and can be found by searching on social media for local groups who host them. The original founders encourage finding local events or starting your own with friends. They just have 2 rules: “Don't charge for it, and make sure to pick up trash.”
Gambler 500 Rules
- Free admission for participants of the rally
- $500 vehicles (not enforced, but more about the spirit of the event)
- Pick up trash
Where is the Gambler 500 held?
The original founders’ event takes place in Oregon annually, but Gambler 500 events take place nationwide. We found many instances on social media where Gambler 500 events are planned across the US every month.
Not Just About Off-Roading, An Environmentally Friendly Rally
Gambler 500 events are designed to promote environmental responsibility and stewardship. Participants pick up a significant amount of trash and remove debris from the wilderness areas and public lands as they traverse the rally checkpoints. The original founders have partnered with Sons of Smokey, an organization dedicated to facilitate the collection and disposal of trash from public lands. These events help to keep these areas clean and preserve the natural beauty for future generations to enjoy. In 2022, the Oregon event collected 427,000 pounds of trash.
Joining the Gambler 500 Community
If you're interested in participating in the Gambler 500, you can join the community by visiting the Gambler 500 website and connecting with other participants through social media. By joining the Gambler 500 community, you can not only enjoy off-road adventures, but also contribute to the preservation of natural landscapes. So why not embrace the spirit of cheap fun, adventure, and environmental responsibility and become a part of the Gambler 500 movement?
Check out the Gambler 500 Website!
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