This year, the Turkey Trot set a record with $4,030 in donations for Loaves & Fishes of Tompkins County. Additionally, the 397 runners was the second most we’ve ever had in 40+ years of the event. While the morning was cool and crisp, the overall weather was perfect for a Thanksgiving morning run.
ABOUT
FLRC’s Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot is a prediction run where you attempt to guess your time for the roughly 5.5-mile course. The course is half paved roads and half trails and grass; shortcuts ARE allowed. Those who come the closest to their predicted times will win delicious pies. Despite the unpredictable course conditions and weather, winners often come within a few seconds of their predicted times.
We no longer collect cans of food, but please donate to Loaves and Fishes of Tompkins County—the suggested donation is $10 per person.
Are you on the Turkey Trot Honor Roll? If 2017 will be your be your fifth time (or more) participating in the run, let us know! We’ll add you as a Turkey Trot Honor’s Student.
There are no watches or timing devices allowed. The run is meant to be fun and bring people together for a great cause. Everyone leaves with a smile on his or her face and a few extra calories burned!
WHERE
Meet at the Ithaca High School Activities Room, next to Kulp Auditorium on the Cayuga Street entrance to Ithaca High School.
The course goes up into Cayuga Heights via a short and steep dirt path, then descends gradually down Remington Road. It then follows the Waterfront Trail around Stewart Park, makes a loop around the perimeter of Newman Municipal Golf Course, and returns via the bird sanctuary. Getting lost isn’t really a problem—simply follow someone who knows the route, as there are plenty of Turkey Trot veterans who run it every year.
Course map. (Click to enlarge.)
WHEN
Meet at the IHS Activities room between 8:15 AM and 8:30 AM. There is no pre-registration.
The run starts at 9:00 AM.
NOTES
- Restrooms are available inside IHS, but there are no changing facilities or showers.
- Post-race bagels, croissants, apples, and cider will be provided.
- For remaining questions, email race director Bruce Roebal.
WARNINGS
The course crosses an active railroad track. We can’t control or predict the train schedule, and if a train is coming, you must stop. Also be aware that the course includes roads that are open to traffic. Course marshals will assist you in crossing, but all runners need to be alert and aware of traffic.
POLICIES
- No watches or other timing devices allowed—this is a prediction run!
- The race directors reserve the right to reject any entry for any reason.
- This race is organized by the Finger Lakes Runners Club and insured by the Road Runners Club of America.