Why not start your Thanksgiving Day by participating in the annual FishHawk Turkey Trot on Thursday, November 28. The charity road race, which provides food to people in need, is a natural fit for a holiday that celebrates food, family and fun.
The all-road course (5K and Kids’ Fun Run- 250 yards or one mile) starts at the FishHawk Publix parking lot located at 
5642 FishHawk Crossing Blvd. in Lithia at 8 a.m. for the 5K and 9 a.m. for the Kids’ Fun Run. The course then takes runners through the scenic, landscaped roads of FishHawk Ranch.
The FishHawk Turkey Trot is perfect for either the accomplished runner or the “out for fun” walker. Custom handmade clay turkey “medals” are awarded to age group winners. Kids are invited to create something special in the free kids craft area. This year, participants are urged to register early by Monday, November 4. There will be a separate packet pick-up for those who register by this date and for those who register later. Make sure you register early to ensure you receive one of the highly coveted Dri-Fit T-shirts which will feature a new logo and something unique to FishHawk.
Race Director and Founder, Leda Eaton, began the race in 2009 with a dual mission of providing meaningful community service hours for students and food for people in need. The race has been successful over the years thanks to the community’s participation and the scenic course. Eaton is the founder of Seeds of Hope Community Food Bank.
Eaton said, “I can’t believe it’s been five years! When the Newsome High School Cross Country students and I started this race, we really had no idea that it would grow as quickly as it has. In one year, it became the largest road race in our area.” Eaton added, “This year we’re planning for 3,000 runners, which is wonderful. I love that our race provides a total experience for professional runners and I am equally proud that it provides a great experience for families.”
The 5K race costs $25 and the Kids Fun Run is $15. You can register in person at the FishHawk Ranch YMCA Express located at 16144 Churchview Dr., Suite 201 in Lithia or download your registration form online at www.fishhawkturkeytrot.com and mail it to FishHawk Turkey Trot c/o Seeds of Hope, Inc., 5668 FishHawk Crossing Blvd., #75, Lithia, FL 33547.
You must be logged in to post a comment.