Hundreds Turn Out for The Annual Turkey Trot Fun Run in Old Town

EUREKA, Calif. (KIEM) – The annual Turkey Trot Fun Run/Walk kicked off this morning in Old Town Eureka. The 5k race took off and ended near the Gazebo at 2nd & F Streets. The event turned out about eight hundred runners.

Organized by College of the Redwoods and Arcata High School, all the proceeds from runners’ registrations goes towards the school’s running programs.

“We’re doing it together to help both of our programs out,” said Davita McGoldrick, Assistant Cross Country Coach at Arcata High School. “It benefits both of the cross-country and track and field programs for College of the Redwoods and Arcata High.”

We also talked to the Head Track and Field Coach at CR, Reed Elmore.

“It’s a good day to give thanks out here. This, you know, exemplifies Thanksgiving,” he said. “You know, people are coming out here and having fun and family and community. That’s what it’s all about.”

After the race was finished, I caught up with a few of the runners.

“I feel pretty good. Just came out to have fun and get some running in before time with the family,” said CR Track and Field Runner, Henry Lamb. “I think this is the type of community event we need more of around here and it’s great to see everyone out.”

McKinleyville High school Cross Country Coach, Jennifer Foesig, also made it out to the fun run this morning.

“I’m feeling great. This has been a tradition for a long time with my son and I got the whole team out today and it is beautiful weather,” she said.

Arcata High School Cross Country Team Runner, John Adams also talked to us this morning.

“It was good to get ready for the big dinner later today,” said Adams. “I’m going to go home, make mashed potatoes and have dinner with the family.”

Runners placing first in their age division get a special award donated from Humboldt Pies…

“They used to give out turkeys, but everyone’s already got their turkeys already going. So now we give out pies,” said Elmore.

As the runners returned from their laps, the community gathered to hand out the pies and celebrate the holiday.

“It’s like a Humboldt County reunion,” said McGoldrick.

Be sure not to miss the next run from Trinidad to Clam Beach on Jan. 29