The Gamble

The Gamble - Hendersonville, NC

The Gamble is a variable-distance loop race held in Hendersonville, NC. The course is a roughly 1.67 mile figure-8 loop. At the start, organizers roll dice; the resulting number determines how many laps everyone will run. Participants must use only what they have on them at the start; there is no extra preparation time once laps are determined.

Distances are variable:

• ~1.67 mile loop
• Possible total distance: 3.33 to 20 miles

The course surface includes dirt singletrack, short paved pathways, some gravel, a few stairs, and a couple of hills. Recent rain within a couple of weeks can make sections muddy. Course marshals are stationed where the figure-8 crosses to direct runners and manage interactions with oncoming motor vehicles.

An aid station is located at the loop start/end and is cupless; participants must bring their own hydration container (for example a cup, handheld bottle, belt, or vest). Aid offerings include water, electrolytes, basic nutrition, quesadillas (vegan and dairy), snacks, and fruit. Restrooms are not directly on the course but are very close to the aid station.

Organizers state proceeds support The Run828 Foundation and North Carolina Mountain Trail Runners. NCMTR members receive free entry via a coupon code. There are no refunds. The absolute cutoff is six hours after the start; organizers may shorten that cutoff if the rolled distance is considerably shorter. The event is planned to run rain or shine, and a weather-forced cancellation would not be rescheduled. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.