Fits Do Race Reviews: T-Giving Turkey Trot

By: LL
Even though not everyone in our family is addicted to enjoys running as much as Cool J and I do, each year our family hosts its own Turkey Trot 5K on Thanksgiving Day. It all started four years ago when my parents' town had their road race the weekend before the holiday. That did not deter us. Instead, we mapped out a route, set up signs, set up "water stations," and held our inaugural T-Giving Turkey Trot. Despite the route being 3/4 covered in a sheet of ice, we still had a good turn out and a good time (time as in "fun" not PRs).

Over the last three years, the race has changed states, but we continue to host our own race, which has evolved to include official bibs, medals, and performance race shirts (still not sanctioned though, but fingers crossed!) The number of registered runners also continues to grow, with a walkers and runners division.

This year is the same route as last year, which includes a quiet residential area with little to no traffic. The route is relatively flat (well, except for the initial hill, which is maybe a 3% gradient). One downside is that the race is a 1.55 mile loop, but that means you are going downhill on your way back.

This race has gotten good reviews from past participants for being well marked, having plenty of water and excellent facilities with little to no wait, and having a one of a kind post-race party (turkey feast anyone?)

It might seem silly to some to put on such a production for a family race, but I feel that if you are going to go out for a run anyway on Thanksgiving morning, why not make it fun and include the whole family. Plus, it is a good way to get those family members, who might not otherwise go for a run, to do something active before overindulging at the feast!

--------------------- | Inaugural Race (2008) | ----------------------

(The guy on the right is in pajamas & loafers...that's just how he rolls!)

 ------------------------ | 2nd Annual (2009) | ------------------------

------------------------ | 3rd Annual (2010) | ------------------------

Looking forward to another awesome TGiving Turkey Trot this year! Even have some first timers registered!