Turkey Trot 5K to Kick Off Thanksgiving Day Festivities

By HEIDI PRUITT
The Kokomo Post Staff

There’s one Thanksgiving tradition that stands out above the rest. The Turkey Trot, a modern-day phenomenon, has returned to Kokomo for a memorable start to your Thanksgiving festivities.

Photo Provided | Jenny Tudor

RUN THE RACE: Jenny Tudor participates in Turkey Trot in 2021

This well-known race dates back to a humble beginning over 100 years ago in Buffalo, New York. The popularity of this timed race has spread throughout cities across the United States, and for the third year in a row, Kokomo is one of them.

At 9 a.m. Nov. 24, families and friends will gather at the starting line and have the opportunity to get active and support the Kokomo Family YMCA before their Thanksgiving day Festivities.

“It’s a great opportunity to get active outdoors, and it’s our way to give back to the community,” said Mark Sutton, the Y’s director of sports & recreation.

This 3.1-mile race is for all ages and abilities and runs through scenic downtown Kokomo. The route begins at the Kokomo Family YMCA and winds through Foster Park, around Kokomo Beach to the famous Willie the Whale statue, with the finish line back at the YMCA.

“This specially selected route gives participants the opportunity to enjoy our city from a unique perspective.” Sutton said.

“We want people to see the different parts of the park and to have a nice view of downtown Kokomo and what it has to offer,” said Sutton.

For Jenny Tudor, an avid runner participating in the Turkey Trot for the second year in a row, the memories made during the race are priceless.

“There’s a lot of people cheering you on, and it’s always inspiring,” said Tudor.

A lot of participants take the opportunity to join in the festivities by dressing up during the race. From turkey glasses to t-shirts and even turkey costumes, participants are expected to join in the fun while also making an impact on the community.

Tony Budenz, marketing and communications director at the YMCA, enjoys seeing the difference this race makes on not only the runners but the community.

"There’s so much impact that happens with an event like our Turkey Trot 5K. Of course, you have the obvious factor that people are burning calories to offset the calorie intake that happens on a day like Thanksgiving,” said Budenz. “What’s beyond that, though, is what we love at the Y: People and families gathering, having a good time and making memories. When you see over 250 people collectively having fun, you know you are strengthening the community.”

Funds raised from the Turkey Trot go back to the Kokomo Family YMCA to provide scholarships and funding for individuals in our community to use the YMCA and its services.

There’s still time to register for the Turkey Trot! Click here to reserve your spot online, or register the morning of the race at the YMCA.