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Arenzville Turkey Trot

The Source

The little village of Arenzville will again come head-to-head with the challenge of over-stuffing as the town’s annual Turkey Trot 5K walk/run hits the pavement at 8 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning. The event has become a yearly opportunity for folks to work off a few pounds before the annual feast. The Arenzville Turkey Trot will begin at the home of Don and Shirlee Wessler on Frederick Street where post-race refreshments will be served. There is no entry fee for the event but monetary donations for the Triopia Food Pantry will be gladly accepted. “We seem to get bigger every year,” said Jay Wessler, the event coordinator. “I mean the numbers, not the actual size of the runners.” He said that this year’s route would be a bit different from Trots of the past. “In a town this small you have to run around it several times to get in 5K so this year we’re going to straighten it out a bit.” When asked about the ominous announcement of a 5K ending at the town cemetery, Jay had no comment. Wessler did add that if there were enough interest, there would also be a 10K offered on that day. Turkey Trots in recent years have become events for entire families with strollers often bringing up the rear. Wessler added, “This isn’t just an Arenzville event. We have people from all over. Thanksgiving’s a time for family and friends and the Turkey Trot has become a part of our tradition.”