Thousands May Flock to Belmont Shore's Turkey Trot

More than 6,000 runners will participate Thursday morning in the 9th annual Turkey Trot, a Belmont Shore tradition.

Along with the pre-feast Trot there will be an array of entertaining and fun events that range from a huge and random pie giveaway in keeping with ancient Greek games, to the crowning of Mr. and Ms. Drumstick; a best legs contest and (rubber) Chicken Chucking competition.

 The Trot, planned by Shore resident and event planner Justin Rudd, starts at the Belmont Pool east of the pier, and registration is still open. Pilgrim wear and turkey waddles are not required but add local spirit (and make us laugh).

The event, a 5K/10K run or walk features all ages and speeds, raises funds for Community Action Team and the rather staggering number of events all year staged by leader Rudd and other volunteers.

And, Patch will be there to videotape trotters and pass out water bottles and luxury pens, while supplies last, to new readers.

You can still register online tonight, or on Wednesday at the Belmont Pool from 1 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. or the day of the race, Thursday, from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Beachfront parking will be available on Wednesday and Thursday with a $1 donation to CAT, during this time there will also be a canned good drive. Organizers say don't pay the parking meters, as that has been taken care of, and urge locals to walk, bike or bus it to Trot because parking is tight.

There will be four start times, 7 a.m., 8 a.m., 9 a.m. and 10 a.m., in addition there will be a Kids 1/2-mile Wingding.

The Kids' half-mile Wingding will take place at 9:10 a.m. for children ages 8 and younger, and 9:15 a.m. for children ages 9-12. The entry fee is $25 if you register by the end of the night Tuesday, and $40 after. Registration will include an event T-shirt, and parents are welcome to run alongside their child. The top finishers will receive a prize. 

The fun includes giving away 600 pies to random finishers (in the Greek games a judge would stand at the finishing line holding the Laurel Leaves.)

Adult volunteers are needed from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. Thursday at the Belmont Pool. CLICK HERE to see what is needed and get signed-up.

Note: the registration company does charge a service fee if you choose to pay by credit card. Entry fees are absolutely non-refundable and the event will go on rain or shine. Not allowed: dogs, bikes, and the only wheels allowed will be wheelchairs and single strollers, which must start at the back of the pack.