Canton To Host 22nd Annual Turkey Trot Thanksgiving Morning

Area residents are encouraged to lace up their sneakers and work up an appetite for a good cause on Thanksgiving morning by running or walking in Canton's 22^nd annual Turkey Trot for a Cause on Thursday, November 28, 2024.

All ages are encouraged to join us in the fight against epilepsy by participating in the chip-timed 5K race or 1-mile fun run that will benefit the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with seizure disorders. The event's main sponsor is Gazelle Sports of Northville, which hosts bib pick-up, and provides awards for this annual event.

This year's race is set to start at the Summit on the Park, located at 46000 Summit Parkway in Canton, MI, and will cover a picturesque, flat course that winds through the Pheasant Run Golf course, beautiful Heritage Park, ending back at the Summit. In addition, race organizers are again offering a virtual option, where runners can pick the time and location to suit their preferences.

This annual tradition was started in 2003 by Michael and Terri Murray after their son Justin was diagnosed with epilepsy. Wanting to do something in the fight against epilepsy to help stop seizures, find cures, and save lives, the couple worked with Canton Township to organize the first Thanksgiving Turkey Trot. Justin Murray, who has been seizure-free since undergoing brain surgery in 2007 to remove a seizure-causing growth, continues to give back by supporting and volunteering at Canton's Thanksgiving races, as well as volunteering at the Epilepsy Foundation's office in Southfield, MI. To date, Canton's Turkey Trot has raised over $300,000 since its inception.

"Canton's annual Turkey Trot has become a popular holiday tradition for so many individuals in our community, as well as in surrounding communities," said Ann-Marie Carravallah, Canton Sports Recreation Coordinator. "It's a great opportunity for families and friends to come together, enjoy nature, and exercise, all while supporting a great cause."

Pre-registration is available online at csc.canton-mi.org or by calling 734/483-5600 until Thursday, November 28, at 8 a.m. when onsite registration is available. Registration fees are $35 for the chipped 5K race and $30 for the one-mile fun run or virtual run.

New This Year! Pre-event shirt and bib pick-up is available on Thursday, November 21 at Kickers Sports Bar & Grill, 46555 Michigan Avenue, during a special "Dine for Dollars" event to benefit the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan from 5:30-8:30 p.m., which will include half-off pizzas and more specials that are available dine-in or carryout. From November 22 - 24, participants can also pick up shirts and bibs at Gazelle Sports Northville at 39737 Traditions Drive, Northville, MI, 48168, on Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from Noon to 6 p.m. Bib/Shirt pick-up will re-open on Wednesday, November 27, from 12-6 p.m. in the Summit Banquet and Conference Center, located at 46000 Summit Parkway, Canton, MI 48188. For those unable to pick up shirts and bibs prior to race day, these items will be available on Thanksgiving morning from 8-9 a.m. at the Summit on the Park.

For event information, including the course map, please visit csc.canton-mi.org or call 734/483-5600.