Prepare to kick off your Thanksgiving weekend on an active note with the Turkey Trot 5K, 10K, 15K, and Half Marathon run/walk. This exciting event brings the holiday spirit to the streets of Santa Monica, offering a variety of race options and a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors.
The event unfolds with different start times to cater to participants of all ages and skill levels. The 10K, 15K, and Half Marathon races launch at 7:30 AM, while the 5K gets underway at 7:45 AM. If you’re looking for a more leisurely experience, the 5K walk/family/non-competitive category starts at 9:30 AM, ensuring everyone can join in the fun.
Race day begins with bib pick-up from 7:00 AM to 7:30 AM for the 7:30 AM and 7:45 AM start times, and from 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM for the 9:30 AM 5K walk. Additional waves or start times may be added based on participant numbers to ensure a smooth and organized event.
Once you’ve completed your run or walk, you’ll be able to access your race times and rankings on the results page at www.abetterworldrunning.com. In addition to the sense of achievement, you’ll have the chance to capture the memories of the day with free downloadable photos available on the event’s Facebook page.
What makes the Turkey Trot special is its focus on creating a relaxed, enjoyable, and personalized racing experience. The event’s ambiance is casual and informal, encouraging participants to enjoy themselves to the fullest.
The race course is designed for ease of navigation, with counter-clockwise loops along the beach path. Each loop is clearly marked, ensuring runners can take in the beautiful surroundings. The 5K covers one loop, the 10K includes two loops, and the 15K stretches over three loops. The Half Marathon, on the other hand, takes participants on a journey through three 4.36-mile loops.
The event takes place at 2000 Ocean Ave. in Santa Monica, CA, conveniently located near Crescent Bay Park. For those arriving by car, parking options are abundant. Street parking is free until 9 AM, after which you can use quarters or credit cards to pay the parking meters. On Saturdays, be mindful of the street sweeping schedule from 7-9 AM, as indicated on the meters. Alternatively, the beach parking lot offers an all-day flat fee, payable through a machine or booth. The cost typically ranges from $8 to $12, depending on the season. Join us on November 24th for a day of fun, fitness, and holiday spirit at the Turkey Trot!