Looking for something new to do this Thanksgiving Day? Look no further than the South Davis Recreation Center races. Starting at 8 a.m. with the Turkey 10K, followed by the Family 5K at 8:30 a.m. and finishing with the Gobbler at 8:45 a.m., there’s something for everyone. From sponsor food and creative awards, to finisher medals and photo opportunities there’s a lot of planning that goes into making Thanksgiving a day to remember.

Sarah Johnson with the recreation center says the races were created to “promote health and wellness,” but also to give the community a competitive playground. “People look forward to the finishers’ medal, swag bag, tech shirt, and the experience of being in a race,” Johnson said. Signing up for the race is simple; those interested can sign up via active.com, in person, or at southdavisraces.com. There’s no age requirement and racers can even bring along man’s best friend! 

The center tries their hardest to create a comfortable environment for all racers participating. That’s what makes these races special, and some people even bring along new friends to introduce to the racing community, said Johnson. “People come back every year for the camaraderie and feeling of accomplishment of finishing a race.” 

There’s not much else to it. The guidelines are simple enough, with packet pickup the day before starting at 5 p.m. and ending at 7 p.m. Families and groups with more than six people can receive a small discount and if they bring food for the Bountiful Food Pantry there is yet another discount they are eligible to receive. 

Due to the pandemic the
recreation center suffered a loss last year. In July with their handcart races, Johnson said they were back to at least half the usual turnout. “We found that people were enthusiastic about getting out and racing again.” 

In preparation for this year’s race the center has created a virtual race, a new all honor base system where people can race at home and submit their time. Johnson said they predict at least 900 racers this Thanksgiving Day and says that the South Davis race team will “strive to do their best to minimize risks” that could come with COVID-19. Masks are mandated at the beginning of pickup and as the racers cross the starting line, but can thereafter be discarded, and they are advised to dress for the weather, as the races will not be cancelled.

Prices range depending on the race people sign up for. From now until Nov. 23, the turkey 10K will be $40, with an additional $10 if tickets are bought day of. The family 5K is $30 until Nov. 23 and will be raised an additional $10 as well and the gobbler 1K will be $18 until the Nov. 23 with race day tickets $20. If anyone has little kids interested in running, the gobbler is the one for them and they’ll have some help thanks to Tom Turkey who will help them all across the finish line. So get the family together and bring your furry friends for a Thanksgiving Day to remember!