Marty Gordon
NRVsports@ourvalley.org
If you’re looking for another way to celebrate Thanksgiving Day, Virginia Momentum might have just the event.
Organizer Kevin Gibson said Blacksburg’s first annual Turkey Trot 5K run provides something for the whole family to do together.
“We wanted to start a new tradition in Blacksburg to encourage healthy activity and community building on the morning of Thanksgiving. We also wanted to support the work of the Interfaith Food Pantry and those who may be hungry during the holiday season,” he said.
Over 900 people have already signed up for the run, and Gibson expects over a 1,000 by race day.
“We are thrilled with the positive response from the community and anticipate a great event to kick off Thanksgiving morning with friends and family in Blacksburg. All skill levels are welcome, we will take walk up registrants from 12-7 p.m. [today] at Sugar Magnolia in downtown Blacksburg,” Gibson said.
The 5K course is designed for runners and walkers of all skill levels. In addition, participants are asked to dress up in their favorite “Thanksgiving-themed” running gear. The Gobble-Gobble Kids Dash will be held at 8 a.m., shortly before the 5K.
The traditional water stations will also have a Thanksgiving twist with Pumpkin pie in tiny cups available along the Turkey Trot course. It will be like a water station but better, according to organizers.
The event also benefits the Interfaith Food Pantry as each participant is asked to bring one canned good or non-perishable food item to the packet pickup.
“We hope to continue the event continues for many years ahead with continued growth and support of the Interfaith Food Pantry,” Gibson said.
The bottom line, Gibson said, is to run, walk or roll in the Turkey Trot and then go chow down at home with family and friends.
“Earn that stuffing and mash potatoes,” he concluded.