Registration for the area’s largest Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot race is now open.
The annual Greensburg Turkey Trot, scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 23, beginning at 9 a.m., was created 32 years ago by five friends who ran every day at lunch.
A 5K run/walk held every year in Greensburg on Thanksgiving Day, the Turkey Trot has grown each year, and according to Mark Sorice, race committee chairman and one of the founders of the event, expects another large turnout. More than 2,000 runners/walkers participate each year.
“This race is more than just a competitive contest; it is a signature community event that benefits many great organizations,” said Sorice. “The support we have received from our sponsors, the Greensburg area community, and participants from in and out of state has been outstanding. Each year, we exceed our expectations, and the turnout is incredible. The entire community gathers for one festive event on Thanksgiving Day to create a tremendous experience.”
The running group created a non-profit called Westmoreland Community Sharing to develop the event. Proceeds from the race support multiple non-profits in the community.
Registration for the race can be completed online at www.gbgturkeytrot.com. There are also online forms that can be completed and mailed.
Not only does the race raise funds for local organizations, but it has evolved into a USATF-certified course and is now recognized for national records. The event, however, can accommodate both serious and casual runners.
Awards will be presented to the top three overall male and female runners and walkers, and the top three overall Clydesdale runners.
In addition to individuals, racing is open for unlimited family, high school and corporate team members, who can register as a group in either the run or walk category. The top three times will be averaged to determine the winner of the Bupp Family Cup, and High School and Corporate Cup trophies.
Sponsorships for the race are available from $2,000 (Title Sponsor) down to event sponsor ($225). For more information, please contact: gbgturkeytrot@gmail.com.
Race packets and shirts can be picked up at the Greensburg YMCA Gymnasium, 101 S Maple Avenue on Wednesday, November 22, from noon-6 p.m. Thursday morning registration and shirt pick-up will be at the Westmoreland County Courthouse plaza, 2 N. Main Street, from 7-8:30 a.m.
