GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The Grand Rapids Public Schools Turkey Trot kicked off Thursday morning, bringing a record number of participants downtown for the race.
Officials say a whopping 5,834 people participated this year, compared to 4,504 runners in the 2022 race.
Among those was Kevin Gingras, who has been running in the Turkey Trot for six years.
"It's just such a fun way to start Thanksgiving," he said. "We get the family out and you know...can't be better."
For Leanne Dillon, the Turkey Trot has been a family tradition for decades.
"We've been running the Turkey Trot since I was little. My dad was running before I could even walk," she said. "And my dad ended up putting up a race around our neighborhood so that we could still run the Turkey Trot during COVID. And ended up bringing out a lot of people and making them smile and really happy. So I just kind of continue doing it because it makes people happy and I like bringing joy to people's lives."
The race raised a total of $100,000 for GRPS athletics, which is also a race fundraising record.
"The Grand Rapids Public Schools Turkey Trot is more than just a run; it's a community-wide expression of support for education," said Holly Visser, development director of The GRPS Foundation and co-race director. "These funds will play a vital role in providing resources, enhancing educational experiences, and shaping a brighter future for the scholars we serve.”
All race participants received a race shirt, and the top competitor in each age group received a commemorative medal and gift certificate to Gazelle Sports. To see race results, click here.
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