TUESDAY, NOV. 26
The 17th Annual Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot, organized by community activist Justin Rudd, is continuing the cardio tradition this year—rain or shine— with a 5K and 10K run, and half-mile Wingding for children, along the Long Beach pedestrian bike trail. More than 3,000 people, dressed in festive attire, are expected to participate in the morning run (or walk, whatever works for you).
Although you can still register for the event on-site the day of—at the Granada Boat Launch Ramp—today is the last day you can register online.
The $40 ticket ($30 for children) will be donated to the general fund for Rudd’s nonprofit, Community Action Team (CAT), which organizes nearly 60 local events, contests and projects each year. According to Rudd, the Turkey Trot is responsible for funding nearly 90% of his community events, including Haute Dog Howl’oween Parade, Belmont Shore Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest, his monthly 30-minute Beach Cleanups and annual Miss Long Beach Pageant.
So, feel good about yourself with a brisk morning workout knowing your efforts are going to a good cause (other than your waistline).
To accommodate the volume of anticipated runners, there will be three start times, each spaced within an hour and a half of each other. The first wave begins at 7 a.m., followed by one at 8:30 a.m. and the last at 10 a.m. The children’s half-mile Wingding, for ages 8 to 12 years old, starts at 9:40 a.m. And for kiddos 7 years or younger, their run kicks off at 9:45 a.m. Please note, all parents running with their children are required to sign a liability wavier.
Entrants will be given a runner’s packet and T-shirt, which must be picked up at least 30 minutes before each run at the Granada Boat Launch Ramp (1 Granada Ave.). If you’d like to grab it the day before, you may do so between 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., also at the launch ramp.
Pumpkin, peach, cherry and Dutch apple pies will be handed out to some 600 runners, so if you’re lucky enough to nab one at the finish line—apparently there is a secret pie give-away method based on bib numbers—feast later on that second (or third) slice guilt-free.
Another great thing: Turkey Trot will also be collecting canned food to donate to the AIDS Food Store, so bring a non-perishable or two. They’re also looking for 12 volunteers to help with collecting, organizing and unloading food later at their panty. If you’d like to help you can sign up, here.
Giving us a moment’s pause: While dressing up in the costumes you’ll be devouring later is a fun (and encouraged) idea, leave the Native American costumes shelved. They aren’t welcome at the Turkey Trot.
Turkey Trot runs on Thursday, Nov. 28, Thanksgiving Day. The event will start handing out runner’s packets at 6:15 a.m. until 10 a.m. at the event entrance at 1 Granada Ave. (The Granada Boat Launch Ramp). To register and purchase tickets, click here.
Online registration ends Nov. 26, but you can still register day of (cash payment only) so long as you show up 30 minutes before the race. For more information including FAQ, check out Justin Rudd’s website, here.