Jackson Turkey Trot

Turkey Trot Race Celebrates 21st Year

Photo, story Jeff Steers
Jackson Area Sports on Facebook

A once small gathering of runners looking for a workout on Thanksgiving morning has turned into one of the largest running events in Jackson County.
The Turkey Trot began 21 years ago with seven participants.
This year the event at Ella Sharp Park entered 1,421 runners and walkers in for 10K, 5K, and Kids Fun Run.
Race director Jeff Beagle wrote on the race’s website that the event started in 2005.
“It began as a way to get an early workout in before helping my wife prepare the Thanksgiving Day dinner with our family,” Beagle wrote. “What started with a group of seven friends has grown into an awesome Turkey Trot.
“Now, together with other athletes, volunteers, and sponsors, we raise funds that will benefit our Jackson Community.”
Benefactors this year are the David Hinz Memorial Scholarship, Jackson YMCA, Kory C. Wittman II Memorial, and Treasures in our Hearts.
The race is the final event for 2025 of the ORS Race Series – a 13-event race series that begins in February.
Zackery Ludtke of Springport won the 10K event in 36 minutes, 16.07 seconds and Kathryn Anderson won the women’s 10K in 41:05.
Zeb Swager of Traverse City took first place in the 5K race with a time of 15:57 and Gibson Shore was second in 16:07. Eliza Bush of Jackson won the women’s event in 18:37.
Mandy Frye of Marshall won the 5K walk in 33:56 and Olivia Snabes of Jackson was second walking in 34.26.
Complete results from the Jackson Turkey Trot will be available later today at www.jacksonturkeytrot.com.

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