I have run a race on Thanksgiving Day for at least 10 years now. It’s one of my favorite parts of the holiday season. Because let’s be honest, there is a lot of food going on this particular Thursday. And starting the day out with some morning miles just makes you feel good for the rest of the day.
For the longest time I would run in the Drumstick Dash in Broad Ripple. That race benefits Wheeler Mission. Their motto is Move Your Feet So Others Can Eat. It’s a great cause. And a great race. It’s well organized and always draws a huge crowd. They also have some of the best race t-shirts around. But after doing this race for about 6 years, I got a little tired of the traffic and finding the rare parking spot in Broad Ripple before the event.
So in 2013, we decided to try out a 4 mile run that was taking place literally across the street from our townhouse. This was the Fit Livin’ Thanksgiving Day Run. It is held at Dillon Park in Noblesville and proceeds raised benefit Hemophilia of Indiana – another great cause!
Aside from the great location, my favorite part of this race has to do with pumpkins. If you watch the highlight video in this post, you will see a number of people running while carrying pumpkins. These are scattered around the course for athletes to pick up as they go by. If you cross the finish line with a pumpkin you get a prize. I did this my first year running this race and won a sweet office chair!
So if you are in Central Indiana next Turkey Day and are looking for a fun race for a great cause – then be sure to check this one out! I will be there. You can usually spot me by the GoPro on a stick I carry around all the time.
Cheers!
Chris