The 35th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot

The 35th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot

Don’t feel guilty about indulging in a second piece of pumpkin pie this Thanksgiving. Grab the flock, get your morning work-out in and feast on the festivities at the 35th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot.

Registration for the Dana Point Turkey Trot is now open. Runners everywhere are invited to celebrate and participate in “one of America’s best Thanksgiving Day runs,” according to Fitness Magazine. Known for its scenic routes, beautiful Southern California weather, and family-friendly activities, the Dana Point Turkey Trot has become an Orange County tradition. Produced by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, it’s the sixth largest Thanksgiving Day race in the nation, attracting more than 16,000 participants to its 5K, 10K, Mission Hospital Kids’ Gobble Wobble, and two-day health and wellness expo.

“This year’s Turkey Trot will be a whale of a time,” says Heather Johnston, executive director, Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, alluding to this year’s new theme for the Thanksgiving Day run. “For 35 years, the Dana Point Turkey Trot has been an Orange County tradition for thousands. Whether working toward your fitness goals, encouraging your kids to get active, visiting with friends old and new, or exploring the new health and wellness brands at the expo, we’ll have activities for the whole family. Expect some surprises this year along the course, including special photo opportunities, presented by our sponsors.”

Enhancements and surprises for this year’s Turkey Trot include detours of fun along the race route, family photo opportunities, live music, larger-than-life inflatable turkeys, and tech shirts and medals for all participants. Also new this year is an exclusive military discount program through a partnership with GovX.com. The collaboration with GovX.com, the largest online shopping destination for military, first responders and government personnel, offers all active, retired and former U.S. Armed Forces servicemen and women a 50% discount off registration fees through an effortless online verification process.

Fundraising proceeds from the 2012 Turkey Trot will benefit The Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group whose mission is to offer support and outreach to the 5th Marines and Sailors while deployed and to take care of their families left behind at Camp Pendleton. Consider sponsoring a Marine, their spouse or their child to run in the Turkey Trot or to provide dinner for a Marine’s family. To make a tax-deductible donation to this non-profit organization, go to DanaPoint5thMarines.com.

For more information, to register for the event or to become a volunteer, visit TurkeyTrot.com.