2024 Eastside Turkey Trot

Get Ready for the Eastside Turkey Trot 5K: A Thanksgiving Tradition You Won’t Want to Miss!

Lace up your sneakers and get ready to burn off some pre-Thanksgiving calories at the Eastside Turkey Trot 5K! This fun and festive event, happening on Thanksgiving morning, is a partnership between the Eastern Community YMCA and Second Sole of Toledo. Whether you’re a seasoned runner, casual walker, or somewhere in between, the Turkey Trot is the perfect way to kick off your holiday celebrations.

Race Day Details:

  • When? Thursday, November 28, 2024
  • Where? Eastern Community YMCA, 2960 Pickle Road, Oregon, Ohio (or choose our Virtual Option)
  • Race Time: Registration opens at 7:30 AM, and the race kicks off at 9:00 AM!

Why Should You Join?

It’s more than just a race – it’s a Thanksgiving tradition! With a fast 5K road course, you’ll run (or walk) through city streets, all starting and finishing at the YMCA. And if you’re really speedy, be the first male or female to reach the one-mile mark and win a turkey – yes, the runner, not the turkey, has to finish the race!

Awards & Prizes:

There’s something for everyone:

  • Overall Male/Female & Masters (40+) and Grand Masters winners get gift certificates from Second Sole.
  • Age group awards go at least five deep, so there’s plenty of chances to win.
  • And don’t forget the Costume Contest! Show off your best turkey-inspired outfit for a shot at the Best Overall Costume, Best Turkey Look Alike, or Race Director’s Choice.

Race Day Perks:

  • Shirts: Pre-register by November 17th to score a LONG SLEEVE TRIBLEND shirt and a $10 Second Sole shoe discount.
  • Refreshments: Post-race goodies include fruit, baked goods, and sports drinks. You’ll also get quick results with disposable bib chips so you can head home and enjoy your Thanksgiving feast.
  • Early Packet Pickup: Beat the rush by grabbing your race packet at Second Sole on November 26th and 27th.

How to Register:

  • Pre-register by November 17th for just $24.
  • Late Registration/Day of Race: $30.
  • Register online at runsignup.com or in person at Second Sole for a $2 discount!

Can’t make it in person? No worries! We have a Virtual Option so you can still support the YMCA Scholarship Fund and keep the tradition alive from wherever you are.

So, what are you waiting for? Sign up today, bring your friends and family, and start your Thanksgiving with a little extra fun and fitness at the Eastside Turkey Trot!

My Y Story – Ken Howard

“I joined the Y in February 2023, and started taking the Silver Sneaker land classes. After a few months, I had a follow-up appointment with my endocrinologist and found my A1C had lowered significantly along with my blood pressure. I am very happy with the positive health results I have had as a result of attending these free classes.”

– Ken Howard, Eastern Community YMCA member

My Y Story – Maryetta Betz

“I have Parkinson’s Disease. Before coming to the Y, I had very limited mobility and bad balance, requiring me to use a walker at all times. I joined the Y and started participating in The Healthy Living, Parkinson’s Class. I started seeing improvements in my health and went from using a walker to a cane. I also added Balance and Brain classes to my schedule. My balance and mobility have improved so much and now I am no longer reliant on my cane.”

– Maryetta Betz, Eastern Community YMCA Member