The Turkey Trot race in South Florida is drawing to a close, marking the beginning of Thanksgiving celebrations in the region with lively activities. The race kicked off shortly after 7 a.m. at Tropical Park, where participants eagerly awaited the starting gun.
Alejandro Ocaña from Spain was among the frontrunners and emerged victorious in the 10K event. “It’s been incredible. I’ve participated in previous years, and this race was very fast. In other years, we’ve completed it in 32 minutes, but this time we finished under 31 minutes. Running 10K is tough. The heat was manageable, but it was quite humid,” he shared.
The first runners began arriving at Tropical Park as early as 4 a.m. Frankie Ruíz, the director of the Turkey Trot, emphasized the community aspect of the event, saying, “This is a race for the whole family. Families have grown with us over the years.”
The Turkey Trot featured races for everyone, including events for children where they could run distances of 100 and 300 meters. “The 5K and 10K races, along with the kids’ events, are some of the most enjoyable of the year,” Ruíz noted.
For many participants, this race marks a significant milestone. Carla Palmer shared her excitement, saying, “This is the first time I’m running in an organized race. I’m a bit nervous, but I love starting Thanksgiving this way—I can eat whatever I want later! I’m thrilled.”
For over 30 years, the South Florida community has initiated their Thanksgiving celebrations with the Turkey Trot, bringing together children, adults, and families to kick off the day in a spirited and active manner.
This annual event not only promotes physical fitness but also fosters a sense of community and tradition. It’s heartening to see families participating together, creating lasting memories while embracing a healthy lifestyle. Overall, the Turkey Trot reflects the spirit of gratitude and togetherness that embodies the Thanksgiving holiday.