FAQS WTF & ABG
Q. Is the Gambler a race?
A. NO, it's a rally. Unless it's Hooptie-X or Mayhem.
Q. What's the $500 rule?
A. There is none. But many like to think that the less they spend on the cars, the more fun they have. So "run what ya brung".
Q. What are the rules?
A. Only one rule: Don't be a dick!
Q. Are there guidelines?
A. Of course. And just to make things interesting many are unwritten. So ring out for a lifeline or, better yet, just show up and figure it out. It's more fun that way.
Q. What does WTF & ABG stand for?
A. Welcome To Florida & Always Be Gambling.
Q. How do I navigate a Gambler event?
A. In Florida, we give you course notes with coordinates and difficulty level. See the 'Navigation' page for a few unhelpful hints.
Q. What about shenanigans?
A. Don't ask, don't tell.
Q. Do I have to be 18 to rally.
A. Many Gambler events are adult only. Some are specifically for families. Each one is unique.
Q. Can I participate with something besides a crap car?
A. All vehicles are welcome regardless of cost or capability. But a rule of thumb is "the more impractical or cheap the better".
Q. What is the "bowling ball" rule?
A. Ahh, the coveted "bowling ball" is awarded to the team that forgets that the purpose of a Gambler event is to have fun, not win. If you try to win a Gambler event make sure you bring plastic sheeting and duct tape.
Q. How much does it cost to Gamble?
A. Most Gamblers are free & some require a charity donation. And sometimes you have to pay for camping. But they are all cheap, so no sweat.
Q. Is there a mini bike Gambler?
A. Yes, there are several different types of specialty Gambler events, including mini bike only, motorcycle only, Hooptie-X, Monster-X, water raft events & pine wood derby's. Some events are secret and invite only. But most common is the rally style event.
Q. Why do Gamblers say Meow?
A. Some say it's like herding cats. Some say it's due to a sponsorship dispute with Meow Mix. Ever hear of 'Super Troopers'? Some just like to say Meow.
Q. Where are Gambler events?
A. The Gambler continues to expand and grow. There are over 100 events in 40 states coast to coast, plus Canada, Mexico, Iceland, New Zealand, Ireland, Haiti, UAE, and two planets. Check the events page for some ideas.
Q. How many people come to an event?
A. Depends on the event. Some have an intimate feel... easy, big boy. Some are huge (thousands!), like the OG. Don't know what that means? Ask Gibby. Don't know Gibby? Call Meow Mix.
Q. How do I register for an event?
A. Most are just show up and play. Some do require pre-registration. All depends on the individual event.
Q. Are all Gambler events off-road?
A. The spirit of the Gambler is off-road adventure. But the realities are that the majority of Gambler events have a paved (lava) component. Which means, generally speaking, your hooptie needs to be licensed, registered and insured. There are a few exceptions, so check the individual event for particulars.
Q. Can I do an event solo or do I need to be part of a team?
A. What ever floats your boat, Captain Smith.
Q. What is the fastest land animal?
A. The cheetah can hit 68mph.
Q. Does the Gambler have a purpose beyond having fun?
A. Yes, absolutely. The most common theme is picking up trash. Events will frequently hand out trash bags and encourage you to pick up litter. Some events support a worthy charity. Here in Florida we collect trash and support the 'Combat Veterans Motorcycle Assoc'.
Q. What are some of the Gambler groups on FaceBook?
A. There are literally hundreds of Gambler related FaceBook groups- Gambler Singles, Adopt-A-Gambler, Gambler Advise, Gambler Chix, Gambler Smart-Ass, Gambler Wrecks, Gamblers 4 Sale, Gambler Trash Talk'n, Gambler Swag Swap, Gambler Rallies, Gambler Spotted, Gambler Events, Gamblers in Training, Gambler Buy Sell Trade, Gambler Beer Fridge, blah blah blah. Each state & each event usually has their own page, and sometimes teams have their own pages. Just surf FaceBook and you'll find all kinds of crap.
Q. What are some of the Gambler FaceBook groups in Florida?
A. (352)GAMBLERS(727); Gambler 904; Gambler 772 - Treasure Coast; Gambler 500 North Florida; Gambler 500 Florida 239; 941 Gamblers; Gambler Big Bend; North Florida GamblerX & Gambler 500 Florida.
Q. Does the 'Gambler 500' have a web page?
A. Yup, it's gambler500.com for the less vague but still awesome. But the Florida page here is pretty sweet too, according to a leading panel of experts.
Q. What is the official drink of the Gambler?
A. Malort. God almighty, who came up with that one?
Q. What is the official song of the Gambler?
A. 'Africa' by Toto, 'D**k in a Box' by The Lonely Island Feat, or maybe 'Baby Got Back' by Sir Mix-a-lot... who knows.
Q. Who runs the Florida Gambler?
A. King Ernie of Clan Airboat sits on the Iron Throne. Lord Christopher (Breaker of Transmissions, aka Trail Bitch) of Clan Hay and his lovely wife Lady Darla (High Judge of Hoopties, aka Double-Tap) are the spiritual inspiration for Florida shenanigans.
Q. What are acceptable bribes?
A. Pure Leaf sweet tea, Meow Mix, refrigerator magnets & anything with alcohol.
Q. What does "send it" mean?
A. It means bring whiskey and a tow strap. Meow.
Q. Gambler linguistics? Figure these out:
A. GamFam, GamVets, GiT, NewGams, Shitbox, Blinker Fluid, Lejund, Send It, OG, Broncho, Fiero, The GodFather, ABG, White Claw, Waypoint, Sirch & Rascue, WTF, Cheater Class, Hater Class, VanHole, MoodDust and OSO to name a few.
Q. What's a good way to find out more about the Gambler's?
A. Just go to YouTube and search for "Gambler 500". There are more video's that you can shake a stick at. See what Jay Leno has to say about us. Watch Fred at 'Dirt Every Day', or 'RidinDirty' or '[Hoonigan]' episode about the 500. Or just come out and have fun!
The Gambler 500. It will change your life.
