Turkey Trot adds 10K

Sports

Sep 18

Written By Staff

The annual Grand Rapids Public Schools (GRPS) Turkey Trot returns for its 34th year on November 26. This year, the Thanksgiving tradition will feature a new 10K race in addition to the Mathnasium 1-Mile Walk and traditional 5K. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are once again proud to serve as presenting sponsors of the event, which supports GRPS Athletics, promotes healthy living, and brings the community together.

This marks Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network's 12th year as presenting sponsor, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to youth wellness and community health. Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU) also returns as Mini Trot sponsor for the fifth consecutive year, while Mathnasium returns as sponsor of the popular 1-Mile Walk.

"The Turkey Trot is a wonderful example of how a community can come together to support student success while encouraging families to develop and maintain healthy habits," said Tanell Hills, Senior Community Liaison for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. "We're proud to continue our partnership with GRPS and support an event that encourages people to stay active, connect with one another and invest in the well-being of local students."

Returning this year, Turkey Trot participants are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items during packet pickup to support a community food drive, extending the event's impact beyond GRPS Athletics and helping address food insecurity in the Grand Rapids community.

The Turkey Trot is aiming to build on last year's record-breaking success, when more than 6,500 participants helped raise more than $275,000 for GRPS Athletics through registrations, sponsorships and donations.

"At GRPS, this school year is our 'Year of Impact,' and the Turkey Trot is a powerful example of that impact in action," said Dr. Leadriane Roby, Superintendent of Grand Rapids Public Schools. "The support generated through this event helps remove financial barriers for scholar-athletes and creates opportunities that help students thrive."

The 34th annual Turkey Trot will take place Thanksgiving morning in downtown Grand Rapids, bringing together runners, walkers, families and supporters from across the community. Registration for the race is now open. Learn more: https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/GrandRapids/GRPSThanksgivingDayTurkeyTrot