Longmont Turkey Trot run returns in full force
Nov. 12—A crisp November morning saw roughly 1,200 participants off to the races at the 47th Annual Longmont Turkey Trot on Saturday.
The race, which kicked off at Altona Middle School, offered participants the option of running — or walking — either a 10K- or 2-mile course around Longmont. Participants of all ages were represented and some even dressed up for the occasion in turkey costumes and fall colors.
The City of Longmont's recreation department puts on the race every year. The pandemic led to decreased participation last year, but Recreation Program Coordinator Sam Calhoon is glad to see numbers rise from last year's 900.
"It's nice to have a huge race like this come back," she said.
The run is also a fundraiser with all proceeds benefiting the city's Youth Scholarship Fund. Calhoon said the city won't know the exact amount of money raised until Monday or Tuesday.
Turkey Trots are held throughout the country during the Thanksgiving season, with many taking place on Thanksgiving Day. Longmont's race typically happens a couple of weeks prior to the actual holiday, which Longmont Allstate Insurance agent and sponsor Liz Hogan said she appreciates.
"I think it works better for families that way," Hogan said.
Local sponsors had a presence at the run with booths at the Vendor Village near the starting line. "We love to support the runners," Hogan said.
Runner Jobie Stom came to the race with a tie-dye Turkey Trot shirt and sparkling tutu. She participated in the 2-mile with one of her sons while her other son ran the 10K for the first time.
"This is one of my favorite events," Stom said.
