Palatine celebrates 35 years of turkey trot races

When the Palatine Park District decided 35 years ago to host a Thanksgiving morning race, I'm sure organizers worried that the idea could be a real turkey (pardon the pun).

But, the event has become so popular that the park district is celebrating the 35th anniversary of its turkey trot in special ways.

In fact, the district couldn't even wait until the day of the event to start the festivities. It has been offering special fun activities such as Tuesday Turkey Trivia; 35 Years of Trivia; and Throwback Thursday Photo History (see the district's website, Facebook page or Twitter feed for more details on the contests).

The Palatine Turkey Trot started as a modest community event back in 1981 at the Palatine Hills Golf Course.

Today, it is one of the park district's largest events, attracting more than 2,200 participants.

"This annual event has grown over the years and it is wonderful to see family and friends gather on Thanksgiving morning," said Palatine Park District Executive Director Mike Clark. "Many families and groups have made this a tradition and the atmosphere is filled with fun and fellowship."

As participant numbers blossomed, the event outgrew the golf course paths and clubhouse area. So, in 1998, the turkey trot was moved to the grounds of Harper College.

Sponsor support has also grown through the years, most notably when Lavelle Law, Ltd. partnered with the park district to become the presenting sponsor starting with the 2013 event.

It was 2009 when Tony Mathias first ran the race. Although he was the only one in his family running, his wife, children and mother-in-law cheered him on.

"I started because it seemed like a great way to get me motivated to start the day and less guilt about eating pie later," he says.

Since then, his wife and four kids have run in the turkey trot and it is now a family holiday tradition, he says.

"My parents (from North Dakota) started walking in the 2-mile a few years ago, and I witnessed my mom running for a brief moment the first time since I was a kid," Mathias said. "Anyone who comes to our house for Thanksgiving knows that our day starts at the turkey trot. We have had relatives from New York To North Dakota participate."

But it's not just the runners who have committed their holiday morning to the event.

"It is also worth noting and thanking the staff and volunteers who dedicate their own holiday morning for the enjoyment of so many," Clark says. "We are all thankful for their continued support including our cooperative with Harper College for hosting the course."

The 35th annual Palatine Turkey Trot steps off Thursday, Nov. 26, at Harper College, 1100 Algonquin Road, Palatine. The event includes a 2-mile run at 8 a.m., a 5-mile run at 9 a.m., and a Drumstick Dash for children up to age 10 starting at 10 a.m.

All participants who are preregistered by 7 p.m. Nov. 19 will receive a complimentary long-sleeve tech T-shirt and a goody bag. On-site registrants will receive the shirt and bag if available on the day of the event.

In honor of the 35th anniversary, this year planners are puffing up the event a bit:

• Every 35th person to cross the finish line will receive a special prize.

• A special age category has been established this year just for 35-year-olds. The male and female winner in this age category will each receive a special prize.

• A photo opportunity area will be available pre- and post-race to commemorate the occasion.

• Prior to the 2-mile and 5-mile events, 35th anniversary hats will be launched into the crowd.

• Each participant will receive a free raffle ticket to win prizes at the event from the district and community supporters.

For complete details about the 35th annual Palatine Turkey Trot, visit www.palatineparks.org. Registration can be done online, in person, by mail or by drop off at community centers. Fees can be paid as individuals, as a family, or as a team.