Troy Turkey Trot will go virtual for 2020 Thanksgiving Day Run
TROY, N.Y. » Due to ongoing health concerns surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, Troy Turkey Trot officials announce they have modified this year’s 73rd edition from an in-person to virtual event. The virtual edition will use a stateof-the-art Troy Turkey Trot app that allows participants to race with others, real time powered by RTRT.me.
Registration opens Tuesday, Oct. 13 and closes Saturday, Nov. 28. Multiple registration price points are available. Visit TroyTurkeyTrot.com to learn more and register. View virtual registration video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0E00sEB2c0
“After reviewing a number of in-person scenarios with the City of Troy that were consistent with state guidelines, we reached a decision that it’s not possible to safely bring together thousands of Trotters to Troy this Thanksgiving,” said longtime Troy Turkey Trot Event Director George Regan. “There’s simply too much at stake for volunteers, participants and spectators, and we’re making these necessary changes to ensure a safe event in 2020.”
“Although we are disappointed not to host a live edition and show-
case our historic downtown and neighborhoods at the start of the holiday season, we are delighted to keep the Trot’s vibrant history and tradition going through the introduction of a cutting- edge virtual Trot experience,” added City of Troy Mayor Patrick Madden. “The health and wellbeing of runners is our primary concern and moving to a virtual event for 2020 will ensure the traditions and excitement of the Troy Turkey Trot can continue during this unprecedented public health emergency.”
While Trotters won’t physically be together in person this year on Thanksgiving morning, event organizers remain committed to supporting the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York and Joseph’s House & Shelter, a Troybased not-for-profit whose mission is to prevent and alleviate homelessness in the Capital Region.
“Due to the COVID pandemic, both charities have experienced a tremendous increase in requests for their services,” Madden explained. “We ask participants to help us feed hungry families and provide warm shelter to homeless men, women and children by making a donation during online registration.”
After registering for the event, participants in the 5K, 10K, Grade School Mile and Turkey Walk will receive an email asking them to download the customized Troy Turkey Trot app, which will be available for both iOS and Android devices. The app uses their phone’s GPS to track their race progress, and receive real-time data, regardless of their location.
“Since many families and friends won’t be gathering in Troy this year due to travel concerns surrounding the virus, the Troy Turkey Trot app will give them a memorable experience and the feeling of being at our event,” said Regan. “Runners will be able to track their progress — and the progress of friends and family — track teams and view the live leaderboard.
“All of this year’s events (i.e. 5K, 10K, Grade School Mile or Turkey Walk) will begin simultaneously at 10 a.m. Thanksgiving morning. Participants using the Troy Turkey Trot app will have their results automatically uploaded to the leaderboard live. Those who wish to use Strava data instead of running with a cell phone can upload results from Strava to the app,” Regan added. “Those not using either method can submit times via the results portal. If you choose not to participate Thanksgiving morning, you can complete your chosen distance between Thanksgiving morning and Saturday, Nov. 28 at midnight. Results from all platforms must be submitted by Saturday, Nov. 28 at midnight in order to be included in the event results.”
Organizers plan to hold a series of socially responsible day-of-event activities, including a mascot race and a Facebook Live broadcast Thanksgiving morning with event charities. Additional details will follow.
The Troy Turkey Trot is presented by Pioneer Bank. Other event sponsors include Wm. J. Fagan & Sons, Choice Physical Therapy and Brown’s Brewing Company.
For more information, visit TroyTurkeyTrot.com.