Register now for Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot

Posted November 03, 2011 11:00 pm

Deb Pfaff

Runners and walkers are invited to take part in some “fitness before the feast” at the annual Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, Nov. 24 at Community Park, 120 E. Oak St. in Addison. This family-friendly event is sponsored by AthletiCo Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy.

Unique to this race, participants may select the length of their course and must predict their finishing time. Racers may select to compete in a 1,2,3,4, or 5-mile event. Turkeys will be awarded to the participant who comes closest to their predicted time in each 1-5 mile division. Additional turkeys will be given to the youngest and oldest runner and to the team with the most participants. Watches, I-Pods and timing devices of any kind are not permitted in the race.

The schedule on race day begins with open registration at 7:45 a.m. in Community Park. A complimentary light breakfast will be available before and after the race including donuts donated by Clyde's Bakery and bananas from Costco in Bloomingdale. The ½ mile Drumstick Dash for kids ages 12 and younger begins at 8:45 a.m. Runners and walkers 13 years and older qualify for the Turkey Trot starting at 9:00 a.m. Awards ceremonies will be held in Community Park following the completion of each race division. Trainers from AthletiCo will be available to assist with proper stretching before and after the race.

Kids twelve years and younger can compete in the ½ mile Drumstick Dash. Similar to the turkey trot, racers must predict their finishing time and abide by the same rule: timing devices of any kind are NOT allowed. The runner closest to their predicted time will win a mini-turkey (Cornish hen). The 2nd place prediction will be awarded a Thanksgiving pie. Each contestant will receive an event t-shirt, goody bag and participation medal.

An “early-bird” registration discount is available through Tuesday, Nov. 22 at the rate of $20 per individual or $35 for a family of four. Each participant will be given an event T-shirt and goody bag Goody bag. Packet pick-up for early registration will be Wednesday, Nov. 23 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. at Centennial Rec Center/Club Fitness, 1776 W. Centennial Place. Event-day registration, starting at 7:45 a.m., is increased to $25 per individual or $45 for a family of four.

To register early, visit www.addisonparks.org or call the Park District administrative office at (630) 883-0100.

Addison Park District is committed to providing the highest quality recreational opportunities and open space for everyone. The 2011-12 Winter/Spring Fun Guide will be delivered to the homes of Addison residents on Saturday, Nov. 12.

If you do not receive your copy, please call the Park District administrative office at (630) 833-0100 and provide your home address for a special delivery. Additionally, the brochure will be available online at www.addisonparks.org with a full curriculum of leisure activities for all ages and lifestyles.