TYLER, Texas — Most people look forward to the big meals and Thanksgiving food for the holiday, while other people think about getting their steps in before the feast.
That’s why the Turkey Trot has been a popular activity in Tyler for the past 21 years - and this years numbers of participants are greater than expected.
This is the first time the annual Turkey Trot in Tyler is sold out with 1,800 participants. If you are planning on commuting on Rice Road Thursday morning it will be blocked off from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
"What's made this race get bigger and better every year is it is a fun race. People are excited to be a part of it," Founder, Michelle Pena said.
And the Turkey Trot isn’t just a holiday race - it’s a race for a cause.
"Every year we pick a charity that we donate to this year, we are donating to For the Silent. Their mission has always been dear to mine and my husband's heart," Pena said.
Pena added families come every year as a turkey tradition.
"I enjoy running. I think it's fun. And so it's just a great way to start the holiday," participant of the race, Karen Wernli said.
Pena said there will be water stations, EMS and police officers on site.
"We have a wonderful community here and it always shows when we do this event. Fortunately, the route is pretty safe and neighborhood communities. We don't go on any main roads," Pena said.
There will be a kids dash, and a 3.1 mile route starting in the back parking lot of Racket and Jog starting at 8:30 a.m. on Thanksgiving day.