The idea, which began as a dream of Florida Fever, has now entered its third year, bringing high adrenaline heejin and sun-stained shenanagans to the state of sunlight.
The Florida man’s game, which the audience previously described as a “country Olympics,” lands at St. Augustine for the first two years, and then moves to Freedom Factory, the racetrack in Bradenton for the third year. Previous events included human beer pong, weaponized pool noodles duel, a brawl in the aisle of hurricane grocery and actual police evasion.
According to the news release, the game’s third article allows fans to predict “more beer-fueled attitudes than ever, backyard brawls and legendary Florida disruptions.” Teams around the state can compete in new events, bigger challenges, and “epic mystery showdowns” with all names called “Living Headlines Without Time in a prison.”
Florida Man Game: Team fights weaponized pool noodles, avoiding police
“We’re bigger, sweaty and cheerier than ever,” Pete Melfi, founder and commissioner of Florida’s Man Game, said in a news release. “With the iconic new venue and the involvement of even legendary Floridians, 2026 will be unforgettable.”
In addition to bragging rights, the winners of the “Swamp Born Warrior” team can take home a catalytic converter trophy and thousands of dollars of cash prizes. Organizers are beginning to draft teams from across Florida, which began in Tampa and Orlando. Online submissions are open. This requires a video and answer to the question, “Why do you win in your city?”
St. Augustine’s team Hanky Spanky won the first and second games. The defending champion is heading down his path to Bradenton in anticipation of a hat-trick.
The new venue is owned by YouTube Star and Motorsports enthusiast Cleetus McFarland. Cleetus McFarland.
As the game continues to expand and take over his life, Melfi said he is excited by the change in the venue.
“This event takes place for everything in Florida, and getting a show on tour is an exciting new element of this competition,” he said.
The Florida Man Game returns on February 21, 2026 with pre-sale tickets currently on sale. General admission costs $40, VIP costs $120, and camp pass costs $100-150. More information: thefloridamangames.com
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Original issue: August 12, 2025 8:59am EDT
