PITTSBURGH \u2014 Registration opened Wednesday for the 36th Annual YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh Turkey Trot presented by UPMC Health Plan, scheduled for Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26.<\/p>\n
Organizers expect more than 8,500 runners and walkers to participate in the annual holiday event.<\/p>\n
Proceeds from the event benefit YMCA food pantry programs and the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. The initiative provides food assistance and community resources to residents facing food insecurity across the region.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Turkey Trot is proof of what happens when a community comes together with a shared purpose,\u201d said Amy Kienle, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh. \u201cAt the Y, we believe we are for all\u2014and on Thanksgiving morning, you can see that belief come to life as people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities come together to move, celebrate and give back.\u201d<\/p>\n
Race options for the event include a 5-mile, 5K, 1-mile and the Double Gobble challenge, which combines the 5-mile and 5K courses. Double Gobble participants who complete both races will receive a special gift. <\/p>\n
A virtual registration option is also available for those unable to attend in person. All participants will receive a long-sleeve shirt and, for the first time this year, a finisher medal upon crossing the finish line. Click here<\/a> for more information. <\/p>\n Organizers are offering half-price registration for participants ages 5 to 18, while children age 4 and under can enter for free. The expanded offerings follow last year\u2019s event, which drew more than 8,000 participants from 38 states and six countries.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Turkey Trot has become a beloved Pittsburgh Thanksgiving tradition because it brings people together for a great cause,\u201d said Bob Shooer, interim CEO and board president of P3R, the organization producing the event. \u201cWhether you\u2019re running, walking or cheering from the sidelines, it\u2019s a fun way to start the holiday with family and friends while also giving back to our community.\u201d<\/p>\n Download the FREE WPXI News app<\/a> for breaking news alerts.<\/p>\n Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook<\/a> and Twitter<\/a>. | Watch WPXI NOW<\/a><\/p>\n TOP STORIES FROM CHANNEL 11 NEWS <\/p>\n \u00a92026 Cox Media Group<\/p>\n