On November 28, the day of Thanksgiving, a Turkey Trot was held at Baker Park.
The race included a 1k and 5k, 3.2 mile run and walk that began at 8 a.m. This race took place in Downtown Frederick, with the start and finish in Baker Park.
The Turkey Trot is an annual event that welcomes all ages to lace up their sneakers and join in on the family-friendly run.
The Turkey Trot traces its origins back to 1896 in Buffalo, New York on Thanksgiving Day. It was originally an eight-kilometer race hosted by the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA). Six people participated in this holiday race, with only four that actually finished the race. Since then, people have participated in the Turkey Trot, year after year–even through heavy weather conditions such as rain or blizzards, which makes it the oldest race in North America.
This Thanksgiving marks the 22nd anniversary of the Sheppard Pratt Frederick Turkey Trot. They have made it vital for the run to be kid- and stroller-friendly for families, and anyone under 2 is not required to register. All participants will receive a race shirt.
Linganore High School (LHS) junior Harmonie Ponce, has been running in the Turkey Trot for five years now. It has always been a tradition in her family.
“Since my grandma passed away, it was like something my mom picked up because she was inspired with her fitness goals, and now we carry on her tradition by running it each year,” said Ponce.
In order to complete a 5k run/walk, many participants prepare and train in order to have a successful run.
“I prepare for it by eating healthy foods, and sometimes I will run two miles on the treadmill when I go to the gym,” Ponce said.
up to the big inflatable sign that’s labeled start or finish line. Then once you start it’s just one big loop around downtown Frederick,” said Ponce.
A student at Oakdale High School, Shannah Khavrutskii, participated in the Turkey Trot for the first time this year. She decided to participate because she loves running and clearing her mind with the post-run dopamine, which she said makes her feel amazing.
“My favorite part of the race was seeing how happy everyone was,” said Khavrutskii. “The running community is so positive, and it’s such a good experience all-around.”
Khavrutskii has advice for those looking to participate next year. She believes that eating healthy foods before the race can help one’s performance during the run and make someone feel better after the fact.
“Eat foods that will enhance your performance, such as carbs and protein the night before, carbs morning off, and don’t procrastinate getting your bib,” said Khavrutskii.
If interested in participating in any future Turkey Trot run, check out their main website for details.
