Trotting before the feast
Many people celebrate “Friendsgiving” in the lead up to the Thanksgiving holiday, and one of the Butler YMCA’s signature events is organized with a similar atmosphere in mind.
Christina Dreher, director of development for the Butler YMCA, said the annual Turkey Trot, which this year takes place Saturday morning, Nov. 4, is meant to raise money and community ties.
“This event is more of what we call a ‘Friend-raiser,’ which is focused on providing healthy fun for our members and community,” Dreher said. “All proceeds raised benefit the Y’s Annual Support Campaign, which empowers us to give back to local families and kids through highly discounted, even free, YMCA Memberships and Programs.”
The Turkey Trot has a one-mile course and a 5K course, which each begin and end at the YMCA at 339 N. Washington St. in Butler.
Registration opens Nov. 4 at 8:30 a.m. The one-mile race starts at 9:45 a.m. and the 5K follows with a start at 10 a.m.
According to Dreher, the route is the same as last year for both courses.
“One-milers and 5k-ers alike make their way down West Penn Street, but the 5K participants go down and loop through Memorial Park,” Dreher said.
Already, more than 100 people preregistered to participate in the Turkey Trot, Dreher said. While she is calling the Turkey Trot a “Friend-raiser,” Dreher said the money it raises funds the YMCA’s Annual Support Campaign, which provides programs like “lifesaving swim lessons, Summer Camp and more at affordable rates for families and individuals.”
Dreher also said the Turkey Trot promotes the YMCA’s mission, because it is a community event as much as it is a fundraiser based around exercise.
“Moving one’s body and engaging in physical activity like a run has incredible benefits,” Dreher said, “but the family-friendly atmosphere, our welcoming community, and Christ-centered cause create an environment that takes everything we do at the Y to the next level.”
For more information on the Turkey Trot, visit the YMCA’s website at bcfymca.org/events/turkey-trot.
