Turkey Trot will draw thousands to Presque Isle State Park on Thanksgiving morning
You don't have to be speedy like the Roadrunner to enjoy this year's Turkey Trot, and don't be surprised if you see some bunny ears along with the turkey legs.
The Erie Runners Club event on Thanksgiving morning has a theme of "Turkey Tunes," featuring favorite "Looney Tunes" characters such as Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Elmer Fudd and the Roadrunner.
"It's a fun way to start out the day," said David Comi, president of the Erie Runners Club and Turkey Trot race director.
What is the Turkey Trot?
The trot is one of the Erie Runners Club's biggest events and takes place each year on Thanksgiving Day. It features a 5K course and a 10K course that attract runners and walkers.
Comi said it dates to the late 1970s and some people are the fourth generations in their family to participate. The race also attracts people who return to Erie for the holiday.
"There is a lot of tradition," he said.
While it's a serious event for many participants, some do turn out in turkey and pilgrim hats or even costumes. Expect to see at least some "Looney Tunes" shirts this year, and maybe more.
"Anything is possible with the group of people who come out," Comi said. "People dress up every year."
When and where is it?
The timed-races will take place Nov. 23, starting at Presque Isle State Park's Beach 1. The after-party will take place at Rainbow Gardens at Waldameer Park & Water World.
Where to eat after you trot: On Thanksgiving Day, many Erie restaurants would love to serve you. Here's a list
The 10K race will start at 7:30 a.m. with the 5K beginning at 9 a.m. Those doing both races will also start at 7:30 a.m.
Comi expects more than 2,000 participants.
How much does it cost?
The price to run either the 5K or the 10K is $15, increasing to $20 after Monday, according to the registration site. The price for both is $18 and then increases to $23.
Watching the runners? Free of charge.
More to do: Where to find holiday entertainment around Erie between Thanksgiving and Christmas
How can I sign up?
To register or for information, go to https://runsignup.com/Race/PA/Erie/ERCTurkeyTrot.
Who won the Turkey Trot in 2022?
Here are a few of the top finishers in various categories, according to results posted online. Find more 2022 results at https://bit.ly/22turkeytrotresults.
Top male finisher ― Open: Richardo Estremera
Top female finisher ― Open: Kelli Proctor
Top male finisher ― Masters: Erik Reitinger
Top female finisher ― Masters: Nicolina Pierce
Male 12 and under: W. Peirick
Male 80 and over: Lawrence Berdis
Female 12 and under: I. Heber
Female 75-79: Mac Mackenzie
Dana Massing can be reached at dmassing@timesnews.com.
This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot draws runners to Presque Isle in Erie PA
