Take part in a healthy Thanksgiving tradition
By Kyra Mancine
Thanksgiving Day is one of the biggest racing days in the U.S., according to Runner’s World magazine. There are many reasons for this. To start, recreational running has become more popular than ever. Races aren’t just about the running, but the family-friendly atmosphere and camaraderie — for participants and spectators. In addition, most people have time off, so it’s easy to coordinate going to a holiday race together. Since the big meal starts later in the day, doing something active is a great way to bond, get out of the way of whomever is cooking at home and alleviate guilt from the overindulging that is about to take place.
While the Buffalo Turkey Trot holds the distinction of being one of the largest and oldest races in North America, Central New York is no turkey when it comes to offering Thanksgiving Day races — both old and new.
Here are a few in the area to choose from:
Baldwinsville Kiwanis Turkey Trot
C. W. Baker High School, 29. E. Oneida St., Baldwinsville
This popular event is now celebrating its 49th year. Over 2,000 participants ran these traditional races last year and raised over $30,000 for numerous causes. You can run the 5K starting at 9 a.m. or the 10K at 10 a.m. A half-mile kids run starts at 8:30 a.m. As a new perk this year, the first 500 10K finishers receive a finisher’s medal.
More information: www.baldwinsvillekiwanis.com/race
Liverpool Turkey Trot, Onondaga Lake Park, Liverpool
While this race is only four years young, it has grown to over 800 participants. Choose between a 5K and a 5-mile race. Both races start at 9 a.m. near the Griffins Visitor Center by Lights on the Lake (Onondaga Lake Path). Proceeds benefit Dollars for Scholars (scholarships for students with a military family member). Expect a festive atmosphere with bagpipe music, food and fun.
More information: www.liverpoolturkeytrot.com
Fayetteville-Manlius Turkey Trot, 8199 E. Seneca Turnpike, Manlius
Up for a trail race? This non-timed trot at the Fayetteville-Manlius High School may be the one for you. Choose between a 4K or an 8K. Both courses start on the high school track at 10:15 a.m. There is also a kids fun run at 10 a.m. This all ages event, sponsored by the FM All Sports Booster Club, is going on its eighth year. College students should wear their college attire.
More information: www.fmsportsbooster.org
Trinity Turkey Trot, 22 Munn Street, Oswego
Can’t make a 5K on Thanksgiving? The third annual Trinity Turkey Trot takes place on Nov. 19, the Sunday before the holiday. The race starts at noon at the Ancient Order of the Hibernians building. There’s also a “Gobble Waddle” kids fun run, various raffles for prizes and the fastest runners may even win a turkey.
More information: www.oswegotrinitycatholic.org/events/trinityturkeytrot
Early registration and packet pick up is encouraged. Your race fee covers your racing bib and chip timing (if applicable) as well as a T-shirt and post-race snacks. If you’re really fast, you may even win a prize in your age group. A portion of the proceeds from each race goes toward a charitable cause, so you can also feel good about giving back. Whether you choose to run, walk, watch or volunteer, you’re in great company locally and around the country. Happy Thanksgiving!