Virginia Run community volunteers will stage an 18th year Thanksgiving tradition on Thursday, Nov. 23 at 8 a.m. — the Virginia Run Turkey Trot.
THE TROT includes a USATF-certified 5K running course as well as a 2K walking course. Each travels through the Virginia Run community at Route 29 and Pleasant Valley Road in Centreville.
All proceeds from the Turkey Trot benefit Life with Cancer, Inova Health System's non-profit program for cancer patients and their families. This year the race is dedicated to Brooks Jones, a Virginia Run resident who lost his life to cancer. The event has been raising funds for the cancer program for 14 years. During that time, Life with Cancer has become a well-established support program and in 2005 the Turkey Trot attracted enough participants and sponsors to net a $50,000 donation to the charity. Over the years the Trot has donated more than $300,000 to Life with Cancer, which is aiding them in building a new family center.
The community volunteers have set a goal to raise $65,000 this year. Top supporters to date include: Carteret Mortgage, Koons of Manassas, Luck Stone, Mitchell Eye Institute, First Horizon Mortgage, and Odyssey Travel. To donate via cash or raffle items, contact Bob Donnelley at 703-830-1179.
The event is open to anyone wishing to enjoy the brisk weather and get some exercise before indulging in Thanksgiving fare. Last year, more than 2,100 runners and 800 walkers participated.
Easy registration, or donation if you are unable to participate, is available online at www.runwashington.com or www.racepacket.com. Entry fee is $20 to run and $13 to walk if registered by Nov. 20th. There is no race day registration for the run.
Fee includes a short sleeve T-shirt, post race snacks and raffle participation. Prizes are awarded to the fastest two males and females overall and in the Virginia Run residents' category.
In addition, the top two runners in the following age categories will receive prizes: 10 and under, 11-14, 15-18, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69 and 70-plus.
The Turkey Trot committee is seeking volunteers from Virginia Run and surrounding communities. Contact Dominic DeVincenzo at 703-830-7634.