The inaugural Florida Man Games were a testament to embracing the wild and wacky reputation that the Sunshine State has garnered over the years. Pete Melfi, the mastermind behind the event, was inspired to create a competition that celebrated the infamous “Florida Man” meme after the success of a beer run event in St. Augustine. The all-day competition featured ridiculous events like a mullet contest, a mud duel with pool noodles, and an “evading arrest” obstacle course, complete with real sheriff’s deputies (don’t worry, no one actually got arrested).

“We understand that Florida is weird,” said Mr. Melfi, acknowledging the state’s reputation for bizarre news stories. The idea behind the Florida Man Games was to embrace the state’s quirkiness and have a good time without overthinking it.

While the Florida Man meme has been a source of entertainment for many, it has also sparked discussions about stereotypes and the portrayal of the state. Some have raised concerns about the impact of using real people’s misfortunes for laughs, especially those struggling with addiction or mental illness. However, the meme has become a cultural touchstone, with Florida Man being used as a stand-in for various figures, including former President Donald Trump.

The event itself was a colorful and chaotic celebration of all things Florida, with participants and spectators alike reveling in the laid-back atmosphere. From shirtless overalls to mullets and “Merica” hats, the Florida Man Games embodied the spirit of the state in all its eccentric glory.

One team, the Red Eyed Gator Huggers, even brought a green iguana named Mikey as their mascot, because what’s more Florida than a stinkin’ iguana? Contestants competed in pork-eating contests, pinup style competitions for “Florida Ma’am,” and improvised mud duels after someone sabotaged the original pool.

The event was a hit on social media, with TikTok personalities serving as emcees and teams promoting themselves with over-the-top personas. Participants like Joshua Barr of the Cooter Commandos leaned into the absurdity of the event, creating flashy characters and embracing the Florida Man stereotype.

Despite the fun and games, participants like Mandy Millam emphasized that Florida is more than just its wild reputation. The state has a wild heart, she said, with a love for nature and a unique charm that is often misunderstood by outsiders.

In the end, the Florida Man Games were a playful and light-hearted celebration of the state’s quirks and eccentricities. It was a chance for Floridians to come together, have a good laugh, and show the world that they are in on the joke when it comes to the infamous Florida Man meme.