ALBEMARLE — An annual Thanksgiving morning tradition in Stanly County is back for its 21st year this Thursday as Uwharrie Dash and the Uwharrie Runners Club are set to present the annual Turkey Trot 4.2 Mile Run.
The free event will be held in YMCA Park, located at 427 N. Street in Albemarle; attendees can register on-site that morning beginning at 6 a.m. or on runsignup.com. The Turkey Trot is scheduled to begin at 7 a.m.
As of Nov. 19, 136 participants have signed up for the run.
“Join us for the most awaited Thanksgiving tradition in Stanly County,” Uwharrie Dash posted on its signup page. “It’s time to kickstart your Thanksgiving morning on the right foot and create that calorie deficit before indulging in your turkey feast.
“This event is not just about racing; it’s about building cherished memories and sharing in the Thanksgiving spirit with your Stanly County community. So, don’t forget to invite your friends, family, and neighbors to be a part of this wonderful tradition.”
With a donation goal of $500, this year’s Turkey Trot run has currently raised $115 through seven different donors.
While Turkey Trot apparel is available for purchase online or on the day of the event, organizers added that stock may run out so early registration is recommended to secure the event’s memorabilia if desired. The shop is currently selling Turkey Trot hoodies for $25 and long sleeve shirts for $15.
The upcoming run is just one of multiple yearly races promoted by Uwharrie Dash and the Uwharrie Running Club, joining the Y Hot Chocolate 8K, Locust Elfie 5K, Run the Valley 5K, and the Tour De Elvis 5K, among many other local events.
Just one week after the Turkey Trot, many of the same runners will congregate for the Locust Elfie 5K course that darts through the Locust Town Center and surrounding neighborhood. The run is scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. and wrap up around 4:30 p.m.
This run requires an entrance fee of $35.
“December is here, now we can officially get in the Christmas spirit,” Elfie 5K event organizers posted. “Participate by yourself or bring your family along for this fun afternoon event. Proceeds from the event will support local youth organizations including the Talent Company & City Youth Ballet. Please note, monetary prizes are also given to youth schools or organizations with the greatest number of participants. If you have a group that is interested in participation, please reach out for your very own discount.”
The Elfie 5K currently has 194 runners signed up and $205 worth of donations on the way to a donation goal of $2,000; packet pick-up for the event is slated for Dec. 2 between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m at The Brew Room in Locust Town Center.