Popular Canton Thanksgiving event celebrating milestone
A family of Turkey Trot participants prepare to run in the 2021 event.
Hundreds of residents trot off calories before holiday feast
On a day when families and friends come together to give thanks, the Canton Turkey Trot will mark 20 years of supporting the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan as runners and walkers will work up an appetite for a good cause on Thanksgiving morning.
On Thursday, November 24, starting at 9 a.m., Canton’s annual 5K chip-timed and 1-mile event will be held at the Summit on the Park, located at 46000 Summit Parkway, and will cover a picturesque, flat course that winds through Pheasant Run Golf course and Heritage Park before ending at the Summit.
Race organizers are once again offering a virtual option, where runners can pick the time and location to suit their preferences. All ages are encouraged to take part in these races, which will benefit the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with seizure disorders.
This annual tradition was started in 2003 by Michael and Terri Murray after their son Justin was diagnosed with epilepsy. Wanting to do something in the fight against epilepsy to help stop seizures, find cures, and save lives, the couple worked with Canton Township to organize the first Thanksgiving Turkey Trot.
Justin Murray, who has been seizure-free since undergoing brain surgery in 2007 to remove a seizure-causing growth, continues to give back by supporting and volunteering at Canton’s Thanksgiving races, as well as volunteering at the Epilepsy Foundation’s office in Southfield.
“Our Turkey Trot has become a popular holiday tradition for many in the Canton community,” said Ann-Marie Carravallah, sports recreation coordinator. “It’s a great opportunity for families and friends to come together, enjoy nature, and get some exercise, all while supporting a great cause.”
This year’s sponsors include: Brooks, Busch’s Food Market, C1X Lacrosse, Canton Leisure Services, Canton Sports Center, Conor O’Neill’s, DO Apparel, Eisai Inc., Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan, Family With A Cause, Gazelle Sports, GCYBSA, IHA Medical Group, Ironwood Grill, J.M. & Sons Plumbing & Mechanical, Kickers Sports Bar & Grill, MY Yoga Room, Park Place Gastropub, and SK Life Science Inc.
This year’s milestone event will be presided over by two special grand marshals: Bridget Murray will be recognized as the 20th Anniversary Grand Marshal; and Lizzie Preston will be the event’s 2022 Grand Marshal.
Pre-registration is available online at csc.canton-mi.org. Entry fees for the in-person events are $35 for the 5K and $30 for the 1-mile race. Virtual event entry fees are $25 for the 5K and $20 for the 1-mile race. Participants registered by November 10 are guaranteed a race shirt.
