Turkey Trots and Other Great Thanksgiving-Themed Races

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Saturday, November 20, 2010

GoLocalProv Lifestyle Editor Andrea E. McHugh

Stuffing, mashed potatoes with gravy, pecan pie…there’s a reason why the average American gains 7 to 12 pounds between Thanksgiving and the Christmas holidays. In fact, the average number of calories consumed by one person during a typical Thanksgiving dinner is 7,100, according to the National Institutes of Health. There’s nothing wrong with a little indulging when surrounded by family and friends, but, consider lacing up for one of this local races that are sure to get the heart pumping and beat the holiday battle of the bulge.

1. NewportFed Pie Run

The Newport Running Club organizes the annual NewportFed Pie Run, held Thanksgiving morning in Middletown, starting promptly at 8:30am. The 5 mile USATF sanctioned road race and 3 mile non-competitive walk starts and ends in front of the Newport County YMCA at 792 Valley Road, and is a scenic course with panoramic views of Sachuest Beach. Cash awards are given to the top two in each age group and runners are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to the race that will be donated to a local food bank. As is tradition and the names hints, all entrants receive a classic Table Talk 4" mini snack pie, a.k.a. “America’s Favorite Pie."

2. The 11th Annual Trot Off Your Turkey

This annual 5K and 1.5 mile run/walk takes place Saturday, November 27, at St. Luke School in Barrington. The scenic route is considered to be a fast course and takes place completely on paved roads. The top overall male and female finishers receive a $100 cash prize and trophies will be awarded to the top 3 teams. Bring can goods for the Rhode Island Community Food Bank and receive one free raffle ticket for each non-perishable.

3. Block Island 5K Turkey Trot

Wanna get away? The 6th Annual Block Island 5K Turkey Trot takes place Saturday, November 27 at 1:30pm with proceeds benefiting Ball-O’Brien Park on the island. Prizes are awarded to both the first male and first female finisher. Participants are allowed to run or walk along the rolling black top roads. The start and finish line is at the Fred Benson Town Beach Pavilion, and warning to the exceptionally slow walkers--the last ferry leaves to Point Judith at 5pm.