Thousands of Runners to Take Part in the NYCRUNS Great Gobble 5K Benefiting the YMCA of Greater New York on Saturday, November 21, in Prospect Park, Brooklyn

National “Turkey Trot” Tradition Started with the YMCA in 1896

NYCRUNS is coming together with the YMCA of Greater New York to celebrate over a century of holiday season running with the NYCRUNS Great Gobble 5K Benefitting the YMCA of Greater New York on Saturday, November 21 in Prospect Park, Brooklyn.

“The YMCA of Greater New York plays such an important role in the health and well-being of New Yorkers,” said Steve Lastoe, Founding CEO of NYCRUNS, the Brooklyn-based running event organizer and community partner. “We’re excited to collaborate on this Thanksgiving season event to both celebrate the YMCA’s Turkey Trot roots and assist in their critical fundraising efforts.”

“We are thrilled to partner with NYCRUNS for the Great Gobble 5K, a fitting tribute to the Y’s history as the birthplace of the original Thanksgiving Turkey Trot in Buffalo, New York, 130 years ago,” said Anthony Escobar, YMCA of Greater New York Chief Development Officer. “As the holiday giving season begins, this race gives New Yorkers a joyful way to get active, give back and support the Y’s work strengthening communities across our city.”

The NYCRUNS Great Gobble 5K Benefiting the YMCA of Greater New York is a 3.1-mile tour of picturesque Prospect Park, one of the jewels of the NYC Parks network. Thousands of runners will loop the park, earn a one-of-a-kind Finisher Medal, and have some fun with the YMCA of Greater New York team in the event’s pre- and post-race Festival Area.

“Turkey Trots” have become extremely popular over the years in the United States. Held often on Thanksgiving morning, these popular events reach from small towns to big cities and often raise funds for charity. The first-ever Turkey Trot took place in 1896 and was put on by the YMCA in Buffalo, New York, and is the oldest consecutively run footrace in the world.

Registration is open for runners of all ages and abilities with opportunities available to join the YMCA Great Gobblers Charity Running Team.

Check here more information on the NYCRUNS Great Gobble 5K Benefiting the YMCA of Greater New York.