Who says you can’t have your turkey and eat it too? The 2024 Edmond Turkey Trot is here to prove that you can burn calories and have a blast before diving into that delicious Thanksgiving feast. This annual event has become one of Edmond, Oklahoma’s largest Thanksgiving gatherings, bringing together fitness enthusiasts, families, and even four-legged friends for a morning of pre-feast festivities.
Race Details: Something for Everyone
The Edmond Turkey Trot offers two main events to cater to different fitness levels and preferences:
- 5K Run or Walk: For those looking to really work up an appetite, this 3.1-mile course winds through the charming streets of Downtown Edmond. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a casual walker, this event welcomes participants of all abilities.
- 1 Mile Family Wobble: Perfect for families with young children or those who prefer a shorter distance, this one-mile course is about fun and togetherness. It’s called a “wobble” for a reason—there’s no need to rush; just enjoy the morning with your loved ones!
Both events kick off bright and early on Thanksgiving morning. The 1 Mile Family Wobble starts at 8:00 AM, while the 5K Run begins at approximately 8:35 AM, right after the wobblers clear the course.
Costume Contest: Dress to Impress
Why settle for regular running gear when you can channel your inner turkey? The Edmond Turkey Trot features a costume contest with prizes for the best Turkey Trot-themed outfit. So, dust off those feathers, grab some cardboard to fashion a beak and let your creativity run wild. Who knows? You might just strut away with the top prize!
Four-Legged Friends Welcome
Don’t leave your furry friends at home! The Edmond Turkey Trot welcomes well-behaved dogs on leashes to enjoy the fun. Remember to keep your pup towards the back of the starting line to ensure everyone’s safety, especially around those tricky turns.
Stroller-Friendly Course
Got little ones who aren’t quite ready to wobble on their own? No problem! The course is stroller-friendly so you can push your tiny turkeys along the route. Like our canine companions, stroller pushers are asked to start at the back of the pack for everyone’s safety.
Registration and Packet Pickup
To participate in this feather-filled fiesta, you’ll need to register. Here’s what you need to know:
- Online registration is available through the RunSignup website.
- T-shirt registration deadline: Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at noon (to ensure you get your shirt on time)
- In-person registration: Available at Russell Dougherty Elementary School (19 N. Boulevard) on Wednesday, November 27, from 3 to 7 PM or on race morning from 7 to 7:30 AM.
Packet pickup for 5K runners and 1 Mile Wobblers who ordered t-shirts will take place at Russell Dougherty Elementary School on Wednesday, November 27, from 3 to 7 PM. You can also grab your packet on race morning at the same location.
Pricing
Prices range from $15 to $25, depending on the event and registration time. For the most up-to-date pricing information, check the official registration page.
More Than Just a Race
The Edmond Turkey Trot isn’t just about burning off those pre-feast calories – it’s about giving back to the community. This volunteer-coordinated event donates 100% of its proceeds to Turning Point Ministries, a local organization dedicated to helping families in need. So, while you’re trotting along, you can feel good knowing that your participation is making a difference in someone’s life.
Getting There and Parking
The race starts and finishes at 19 N. Boulevard in Downtown Edmond, right in front of Russell Dougherty Elementary School. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, don’t worry – Edmond is just a short drive north of Oklahoma City, making it easily accessible for out-of-towners looking for a unique Thanksgiving experience.
Parking is free and available throughout Downtown Edmond. Just be sure to arrive early to snag a good spot and give yourself plenty of time to pick up your race packet if you haven’t already.
A Community Affair
The Edmond Turkey Trot has become more than just a race – it’s a community celebration that brings together people from all walks of life. This event has something for everyone, from serious runners aiming for a personal best to families creating new Thanksgiving traditions.
As you go through the course, you’ll be treated to the sights and sounds of Downtown Edmond decked out for the holiday season. The crisp November air, the cheers of spectators, and the camaraderie of fellow participants create an atmosphere that’s hard to beat.
So, this Thanksgiving, why not start a new tradition? Lace up those running shoes, put on your silliest turkey costume, and join the flock at the 2024 Edmond Turkey Trot. It’s the perfect way to kick off your holiday – with a healthy dose of exercise, a heap of community spirit, and a whole lot of fun. Who knows? You might just find that a morning trot makes that afternoon nap all the sweeter.
Sources: runsignup.com, Edmond Turkey Trot, OK Facebook Page
Header Image Source: runsignup.com
