A beloved turkey-inspired fundraising tradition is returning this holiday weekend in Northumberland.
That’s right, the Turkey Trot is back on Monday, Oct. 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Participants will once again start their “gobble wobbles, wing dings and gobbler runs and walks” at the YMCA Cobourg location and travel through the picturesque Cobourg Conservation Area.
Race director and organizer Rod Simpson reflects back on the event’s start more than a decade ago now.
Last year’s event was hailed as a resounding success with a record number of participants rallying for the trot, which also raises funds in support of YMCA Northumberland’s Strong Communities campaign. Monies raised help knock down barriers for kids, teens, adults and seniors in the community accessing health- and Y-related services and programs.
A dedicated contingent of volunteers – about 38 strong – bring the event to life every year because of the community’s response year after year.
However, because the event has become such a popular tradition, attendees are also encouraged to pre-register this year to ensure their spots ahead of race day – there were a few sold-out categories last year, notes Simpson.
People can register in advance online, where there is also a fulsome schedule for race day.
In terms of a quick rundown, check-in and race day registration at the 339 Elgin St. W. Y starts at about 8:30 a.m. Monday.
The four-year-old and under crowd are up first with the “gobble wobble” about an hour later, and the “wing ding” kids fun run starts shortly afterwards. This fun, untimed event is for both youngsters and the young at heart.
Then, the timed gobbler 5K run and 2.5K run/walk is set to start at about 10:10 a.m.
Awards – including medals and the coveted “golden drumstick trophy” for best turkey spirit – will wrap up the event just before 11:30 a.m.
And that isn’t the only reward for the day, notes Simpson.
And if you’re a first-timer and looking for the golden drumstick award, here’s what you should know.
It’s also the only trophy Simpson knows of that squeaks.
Attendees can learn more online.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt, with files from Joseph Goden)
