Every Thanksgiving, people around the nation participate in a charity race that many refer to as the Turkey Trot. In Roanoke, it is known as the Drumstick Dash. It is held downtown, and you can donate food and more before and after the race to help support charities. The 5k race is a great way to start your Thanksgiving before chowing down. On the 28th of every year, at 9:30, the race starts with guided instructions along the way. Some walk for fun, some run to compete for first, but the whole experience is amazing. It is normal to see many people dressed up in festive costumes of turkeys and more to add more fun to the race.
This yearly event continues to grow numerously with people each year. Just in Roanoke, there were almost 8,000 people there to give back to their community. The race proceeds go to support the local homeless shelter, making it a meaningful way for families and friends to begin their holiday celebration. Some families go as a tradition and have been for the past ten years or longer, while for other runners could be participating for the first time in this event. Rylei Evans (12) says “This is my first year doing the race with my friend. I haven’t done it since I was eight and I’m really excited to dress up and participate in this event.” Rylei exemplifies how you could join the race at any time, no matter if you ran or walked it the year before.
You can run for the fun of it, for fitness benefits, or for giving back to your community and donating. Leila Ramey (12) says “I run for all of the benefits: fun, charity, and fitness” she also stated, “This is my fourth year running this with my friends. It gets better each year.” This yearly event helps bring people together, creating a community to help the ones in need. Whether you run, walk, or are just there to cheer on the side, the drumstick dash creates an environment of support, helps create community, and memories to remember forever.
