Oconomowoc to Burlington to Brookfield. While miles will separate these UW-W running club members, all joined together to run various turkey trots, a run held on or around Thanksgiving, in their hometowns this holiday season. As many students pack up and head home for the holiday break, these runners are planning to begin their mornings on the starting line in their respective towns, carrying the club’s camaraderie with them.
“Even though we’re apart, we make sure to stay connected and cheer each other on in our group chat and on social media,” Running Club president Andy Verbos said.
Verbos is running the St. Leonard Turkey Trot in Muskego, which started at 9 a.m. Thanksgiving morning. For him, the tradition is more than just a workout.
“The Turkey Trot has always been one of my favorite races,” Verbos said. “For many families, including mine, it’s a huge part of Thanksgiving due to the family atmosphere and the shared community spirit. Over 1.1 million people participate in a Turkey Trot every year and this number is growing rapidly. It’s a tradition that not only promotes health with a huge sense of accomplishment but also serves as a fundraiser for many local charities.”
Running club member Ben Burie ran in the Brookfield Turkey Trot this year. Burie has been running turkey trots for the past several years and now considers them a yearly tradition.
“Turkey trots are a great way to spend the holiday outdoors with family and friends, and get some exercise in before a great feast later in the day,” Burie said.
The club has been preparing all semester for these races. You may have seen the group run around Whitewater as they practice three times a week. Their fall calendar has been packed with races, from the Discover Whitewater 5K and the Run4Randi 5K, to larger events like the Madison Marathon, half marathon and 10K. Each race has helped members build endurance, confidence and a tight sense of community.
Regardless of the heavy training, most are participating in the trot, not just for PRs and good times, but for fun. The versatility of a turkey trot is what makes it so appealing; some people like the low-pressure aspect, while others run to beat their friends or family.
“This year, my personal goal is just to have a great time and enjoy the run,” Burie said.
Verbos’ personal goal for his race was to run around 18:30 and win first in his age group, but more importantly, push himself and then celebrate later with his loved ones around a great plate of food.
“Since my family is very competitive, before the race, we all write down our predictions for what times everyone thinks my Dad and I will finish the race in,” Verbos said. “The closest, well, that comes along with the bragging rights that are talked about over Thanksgiving dinner.”
If you’re interested in getting started in low-stakes, high-energy running with a sense of accomplishment, Running Club welcomes all levels of running.
