This year marks the 16th Annual Up North Media Traverse City Turkey Trot, a run that takes place in Traverse City every year on Thanksgiving morning. This year, Thanksgiving, along with the Turkey Trot, fell on November 23, 2023. Racers had the opportunity to sign up and run the 5k run/walk or the “5 Mile Flier”. The start and finish for both races was at Saint Francis High School. The 5k racers made their way around a course throughout the downtown area and neighborhoods, while the “5 Mile Flier” runners went in the opposite direction and looped around Boardman Lake. The “5 Mile Flier” began at 8:45 a.m., and the 5k took off 15 minutes later at 9 a.m. 

  Several West students and staff participated in the Turkey Trot this year, many of them being athletes, who appreciate having the opportunity to do a “fun run” and be active outside their usual competitive races for the high school team. For senior Ava King, this type of racing offers a whole new perspective on a sport she already loves.

  “Fun races outside of school are my favorite because you see so many people running. From three years old to 90, it’s such a fun environment of people who love to move, and it’s really fun to race older people, especially the guys because you can tell they don’t want to lose to a teenage girl” King said. 

  A majority of the cross country runners enjoy these fun community races and have participated in others throughout the year, such as the Zombie Run or the Cherry Festival Races. Running and getting active is a great way to meet people and be a part of a community, and this is the main focus of races like the Turkey Trot. Freshman Tessa Mascari also noted the lack of pressure in the races, making it such an uplifting experience.

  “Doing fun races outside of the cross country season gives me a chance to run with my friends and not having as much pressure as you do when you are trying to do your best to contribute to a team victory. Running the Turkey Trot was a lot of fun because I got to run with my friends, and we just talked throughout the race,” Mascari said.

  Not only is the Turkey Trot an annual event in Traverse City, but it is commonly hosted in many other towns nationwide. People commend it for being a great way to celebrate the holiday while staying active before Thanksgiving dinner. It has even made its way into the Thanksgiving day traditions of many families. Some friends and families will dress up and get really involved with making it a part of their holiday. Therefore, if you’re looking for a new way to spice up your Thanksgiving celebrations next year, try grabbing your running shoes and signing up for the annual Turkey Trot.