Runners of all ages tested their endurance and had a chance to win their Thanksgiving dinner during the Turkey Trot races Saturday, an event many participants said has become synonymous with the holiday spirit.
"It really helps us get into the mood," said Joseph Duran of Albuquerque, who has participated with his wife in the annual run for the last two years. "We train pretty hard and do our best and afterward we are able to relax and appreciate the holidays."
This year's Turkey Trot, sponsored by UNM Recreational Services, was the 27th for the event and drew more than 200 entries.
Although the races were competitive, the event was designed to give everyone a chance to get involved, with age divisions ranging from the 13-16 years-old group to 65 and over.
"This is more than just a race," said Christine Apodaca, accountant for Recreational Services. "It is a chance for families to get outside and do things together. It is important to promote family activities, especially during this time of the year."
Turkeys, chickens and Cornish Game Hens were awarded to the top three finishers in every age and gender category.
Get content from The Daily Lobo delivered to your inbox
An entry fee of $9 gave participants a chance to run in either the children's race, which was a half-mile, or the adult race, which was slightly more than three miles. Both races began the west side of The Pit.
The Turkey Trot is part of the Getaway Adventures program, a division of Recreational Services.
The program offers instructional, educational and recreational excursions and clinics for the local community, providing numerous outdoor activities such as cross-country skiing, hiking, rock climbing and camping.
According to its Web site, the mission of Recreational Services is to provide a wide variety of opportunities to enhance the educational, recreational and cultural experiences of a diverse University community.
"Sponsoring events like this helps us promote the benefits of good health and the opportunities that wait for all of us outdoors," said Samantha Fernandez, an employee of the Recreational Services department. "It allows everyone to get involved and test their physical fitness and burn off a few more calories before the holiday season starts."
Wendy's Restaurant and Pepsi were also sponsors of this year's Turkey Trot.
