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| Participants enjoying previous Canton Turkey Trot for a Cause events. (Photos provided courtesy of the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan) |
On a day when families and friends come together to give thanks, the Canton Turkey Trot will mark 20 years of supporting the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan as runners and walkers will work up an appetite for a good cause on Thanksgiving morning, a Canton spokesman said.
Beginning at 9 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day, the annual 5K chip-timed and 1-mile event will take place at the Summit on the Park, located at 46000 Summit Parkway in Canton. The flat, picturesque course will wind through Pheasant Run Golf course and Heritage Park, ending back at the Summit. Race organizers are once again offering a virtual option, where runners can pick the time and location to suit their preferences. All ages are encouraged to take part in these races, which will benefit the Epilepsy Foundation, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with seizure disorders.
This annual tradition was started in 2003 by Michael and Terri Murray after their son Justin was diagnosed with epilepsy. Wanting to do something in the fight against epilepsy to help stop seizures, find cures, and save lives, the couple worked with Canton officials to organize the first Thanksgiving Turkey Trot. Justin Murray, who has been seizure free since undergoing brain surgery in 2007 to remove a seizure-causing growth, continues to support and volunteer at the event. He also volunteers at the Epilepsy Foundation office in Southfield. The Thanksgiving Turkey Trot has generated more than $300,000 since it began two decades ago.
“Our Turkey Trot has become a popular holiday tradition for many in the Canton community,” said Ann-Marie Carravallah, sports recreation coordinator. “It's a great opportunity for families and friends to come together, enjoy nature, and get some exercise, all while supporting a great cause.”
Sponsors this year include: Brooks, Busch's Food Market, C1X Lacrosse, Canton Leisure Services, Canton Sports Center, Conor O'Neill's, DO Apparel, Eisai Inc., Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan, Family With A Cause, Gazelle Sports, GCYBSA, IHA Medical Group, Ironwood Grill, J.M. & Sons Plumbing & Mechanical, Kickers Sports Bar & Grill, MY Yoga Room, Park Place Gastropub, and SK Life Science Inc.
There will be two special grand marshals at the event this year, organizers said. Bridget Murray will be recognized as the 20th Anniversary Grand Marshal, and Lizzie Preston will be the 2022 Grand Marshal.
Pre-registration is available online at csc.canton-mi.org. Entry fees for the in-person events are $35 for the 5K and $30 for the 1-mile race. Virtual event entry fees are $25 for the 5K and $20 for the 1-mile race. Participants registered by Nov. 10 are guaranteed a race shirt.
Participants can pick up shirts and bibs Nov. 18-22, during store hours at Gazelle's Sports, located at 39737 Traditions Dr. in Northville, as well as from 1-6 p.m. Nov. 23 at the Summit on the Park.
Established in 1948, the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan is an independently incorporated affiliate of the national Epilepsy Foundation, providing education and consultation services, public awareness, support services, advocacy, and employment guidance for people with epilepsy and their families. For more information, visit www.epilepsymichigan.org or call 1-800-377-6226.
For event information, including the course map, visit csc.canton-mi.org or call (734) 483-5600.
