AUSTIN, Texas — Before people in Austin stuffed themselves with turkey, sides and desserts, some took part in an annual Thanksgiving tradition.
More than 21,000 people woke up before the sun to take part in the Thundercloud Subs 34th annual Turkey Trot in Downtown Austin. The race is the largest 5-mile run in Texas.
The event got off to a chilly start Thursday morning, but ThunderCloud co-owner and race director Mike Haggerty said in all the years he’s overseen the race, people show up no matter what.
“It’s a great turnout. Lots of people in costumes, it’s all for a good cause,” Haggerty said.
100% of the ticket revenue goes directly to Caritas of Austin, a citywide nonprofit that aims to help prevent and end homelessness.
“The community coming together to have fun, celebrate Thanksgiving and at the same time raise money that support our services,” Caritas of Austin CEO Jo Kathryn said.
Timothy Rinn, who found a new path through Caritas, said he has participated in the Turkey Trot for 11 years, and it has become his tradition.
“I look forward to this every year. You know, when you don’t have family around, you know, this kind of fills that void,” he said. “I was homeless for four years here in Austin and Caritas was like angels coming down.”
Others such as Brian Sharp also look forward to the yearly event. He said 2024 is his 15th year running the Turkey Trot.
“It’s a building process throughout the year, so by the time I get here for my anniversary race, because my journey started Thanksgiving Day 2010 -right here for this race- by the time I get to this point, I’m ready,” Sharp said.
Sharp said that aside from setting goals for races, he’s also grateful to be part of an event that gives back.
“I try to donate every year because I know what they do is important,” he said.
The Turkey Trot also had a string of races that included a one-mile walk and Stepping Stone School Kids K event.