Work up an appetite on Thanksgiving Day prior to the big meal. Local organizations are hosting fundraising runs—aptly named turkey trots, or gobble wobbles—on the morning of the holiday. After all, it’s a day of giving.
In Killington, Kasie Munson puts on the sixth annual Killington Turkey Trot in support of local charities. Start time is at 9:30 a.m. from Pickle Barrel Nightclub, 1741 Killington Road. Participants should note this is a location change from neighboring establishment JAX Food & Games, where the race has been held in prior years, and where it was originally planned to be held this year. Organizers changed the location recently, so be sure to get to the right parking lot. Pre-registration can be completed online at killingtonturkeytrot.com for $20; or register the day of for $25. For more info, email kasiemnson@hotmail.com or call 617-594-8473.
In Woodstock, Zack’s Place, a community enrichment center helping to enhance the lives of special needs folks, is holding its annual turkey trot. In 2015, 1,500-plus people participated in this ever-growing fundraiser, raising about $67,000. All proceeds benefit the organization. Pre-register for this 5k run and walk at zacksplacevt.org. The race begins at 10 a.m. in front of the Woodstock Elementary School, 15 South Street. Entry fee is $30.
Join a local race to get a little exercise and fresh air pre-game on Thanksgiving day, and earn that extra slice of pie.
Post-Thanksgiving, Okemo Mountain Resort in Ludlow holds its annual Trot It Off 5k on Saturday, Nov. 26. This 5k running/walking race is perfect for the avid runner or the recreational walker hoping to burn off the calories from that extra slice of Thanksgiving dessert. Registration is $25 per person and proceeds go to support the Wendy Neal Scholarship Fund and Black River Good Neighbor Services. All participants will receive an event t-shirt. The Tots Trot, a kids’ fun race for children 12 and younger, will take place just before the 5k. Register online at okemo.com.
