Taos Turkey Trot: November 23

TaosTurkeyTrotWhat is the Taos Turkey Trot? A 5k fun-run that encourages kids in Taos, and people of ALL ages to have a fun, healthy lifestyle. It is a time to kick off the holidays the healthy way, with exercise and outdoor community fun. You don’t have to be a runner, but you may have to be willing to gobble. And you definitely have to be willing to take a few extra steps and join in the community fun.

The Turkey Troy is a 5k (that’s 3.1 miles) starting at the Youth and Family Center. The course meanders along Gusforf and Cruz Alta, and finishes up on the downhill back to the Youth and Family Center.

November 23rd is the 3rd annual Taos Turkey Trot 5K Road Race and Fun Run/Walk. Every year it has gotten bigger — more kids, more families, and more costumes.  Yes, lots of turkeys, and even a few gorillas.

This year, proceeds benefit “Get Fit Taos Kids” and the Taos Sports Alliance. “Get Fit Taos Kids” works with youth ages 8 – 14 years who are overweight and at risk for developing diseases such as diabetes. The Taos Sports Alliance serves the Northern New Mexico community by programming, promoting, and operating sports and recreation events that benefit youth. Collaborating volunteers, private companies, and municipal resources join forces to help young people participate in organized sports and recreational activities, all to encourage healthy lifestyles.

Both organizations support the Turkey Trot’s hope that kids and families become healthier and happier together in our community. The organizers are pleased to announce that classes from Roots & Wings and Taos Integrated School of the Arts are participating as teams.  They’ve been training for the last couple of months to go the distance, and have learned about team work, health and nutrition, and the fun of being healthy.

Every participating runner/walker also has a chance to win prizes. Awards will be given to the top three overall Male and overall Female winners, along with an award for Best Costume. Prizes include:

Please support them throughout the year, because everything that goes around comes around!

Taos Ski Valley – four adult lift tickets for the 2013/2014 ski season
Cids Food Market – four $25 gift certificates for your thanksgiving turkey!
Gorge Bar and Grill – $50 gift certificate
Amizette Inn & Restaurant – breakfast for two
Taos Lifestyle – $40 gift certificate
Facials of Taos – one hour facial
Cooking Studio Taos – cooking class
Dreamcatcher B&B – one night stay for two
Taos Ski Valley Chamber of Commerce – $50 cash prize for three winners
Good Sole – gift certificate
Taos Mountain Outfitters – gift certificate
AuraFitness – yoga punch card for 8 classes
The Bavarian Restaurant – lunch for two gift certificate
Choice Wireless – smartphone and 3 months of service

Registration starts at 7:30am at the Youth and Family Center. Register online at taosturkeytrot.org and you get a t-shirt too.

Before the holidays get into full swing, come out and take a morning walk or run, or be a turkey for a bit.  It’s for a good cause, and for your own good health!