Turkey trot
Registration now open for annual race-walk
Area residents are encouraged to lace up their sneakers and work up an appetite for a good cause on Thanksgiving morning by participating in Canton’s 23rd annual Turkey Trot for a Cause.
The chip-timed race and 1-mile fun run is a benefit event for the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with seizure disorders. The event’s main sponsor is Gazelle Sports of Northville, which hosts bib pick-up, and provides awards for this annual event.
The race is set to start at the Summit on the Park, located at 46000 Summit Parkway, and will cover a picturesque, flat course that winds through the Pheasant Run Golf course, Heritage Park, ending back at the Summit. In addition, race organizers are again offering a virtual option, where runners can pick the time and location to suit their preferences.
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 Township 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 give back by supporting and volunteering at the Canton Thanksgiving races, as well as volunteering at the Epilepsy Foundation’s office in Southfield. To date, the Canton Turkey Trot has generated more than $350,000 since its inception.
“For so many individuals in our community, Canton’s annual Turkey Trot has become a popular holiday tradition,” said Ann-Marie Carravallah, Canton Parks and Sports supervisor. “It’s a great opportunity for families and friends to come together, enjoy nature, and exercise, all while supporting such a great cause.”
Pre-registration is available online at csc.canton-mi.org or by calling (734) 483-5600 until 8 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 27, when onsite registration is available. Participants registered by Nov. 10, are guaranteed an event T-Shirt. Registration fees are $37 for the chipped 5K race and $32 for the 1-mile fun run or virtual run.
Pre-event shirt and bib pick-up is available from 5 until 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20 at the Canton Sports Center, 46555 Michigan Ave. Participants can also pick up shirts and bibs at Gazelle Sports’ new Northville location at 117 E. Main St., Northville from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21 and from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22 and from noon until 6 p.m. Sunday Nov. 23. Bib/Shirt pick-up will re-open from noon until 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 26, in the Summit Banquet and Conference Center, located at 46000 Summit Parkway, Canton. For those unable to pick up shirts and bibs prior to race day, these items will be available on Thanksgiving morning from 8-9 a.m. at the Summit on the Park.
For event information, including the course map, visit csc.canton-mi.org or text 734/756-8383.
