Get Ready to Trot Off the Turkey

This Thanksgiving season, there is an easy way for Chathamites to give money to charity—and maybe even shed a few pounds—all without roaming too far from home.

The fourth annual Chatham Turkey Trot takes place Thanksgiving morning, Nov. 22. The race takes place at the intersection of Seminole Way and Van Houton Avenue. Pre-registration begins at 8 a.m., with the one-mile and 5k races to follow.

Curt Ritter, president of the Chatham Turkey Trot, said last year over 215 people participated in the event, which includes a one-mile Family Fun Run and a 5k race.

"Organizers anticipate a larger turnout this year as participation and interest in this Chatham Highlands holiday tradition continues to grow each year," Ritter said.

Registration can be done online by visiting the Chatham Turkey Trot website. The price before Thursday is $15 for the one-mile race and $20 for the 5k. After Nov. 15, registration for both races rises to $25 per person.

Funds raised by the Chatham Turkey Trot benefit the Chatham Township Volunteer Fire Department and the Diabetes Research Institute. Ritter said the even thas raised over $10,000 in the last three years.

Each year as the event grows, Ritter said, "the Chatham community comes together to give thanks for all that we have and to raise funds for those dedicated to protecting and improving the lives of others."

This year's sponsors for the Chatham Turkey Trot include Investors Bank, Klas Electrical Contractors, Allstate: John Hawk Agency, Kitchen Intuitions, KraftMaster Renovations, ShopRite and Simonfay Landscape Services.