COLUMBUS, Ohio — Thousands of runners participated in the Chase Columbus Turkey Trot on Thursday.
The race, put together by Ultrafit-USA, has been a recurring event since 1986 and helps get families and friends together before they sit down at the dinner table for Thanksgiving.
This year, organizers say there are more than 4,7000 racers signed up to participate.
The kids' race sponsored by Dick's, also known as the "Tot Trot," started at 8:30 a.m. near the Shops on Lane Avenue. There was also a 2.6 "Walk N' Talk" route for those 12 and older to participate in, and the official 5-mile race.
Those who finished the race were greeted with a finisher medal and a quarter zip pullover. Participants in the 2.6 and 5-mile events will get a pumpkin pie.
But, the race wasn't just about running... and pie. According to the website, the event is also about giving back.
This year, the Turkey Trot is teamed up with Easterseals of Central & Southeast Ohio which helps provide services, education, outreach and advocacy for those living with autism and other disabilities.
Pandora Shaw-Dupras, CEO of the Central & Southeast Ohio the Easterseals, was at the event to support the runners and said it is one of their largest fundraisers.
"This has become a Thanksgiving tradition for many families in central Ohio and it's just a great way to come out and support Easterseals," said Shaw-Dupras. "It's also a great way to work off all the extra turkey and dressings today."
One of the runners in attendance was Secretary of State Frank LaRose who said it's his family's second year participating.
"[We] burn a few calories before we feast for Thanksgiving but also support a great cause. Easterseals does so many amazing things in our community, so we're out here running for a reason this morning... and then you get a pumpkin pie when you're done which is pretty fun too."
