If you are new to Redding, CA you must know that the Turkey Trot is coming!

Shasta Regional Medical Center's annual Turkey Trot is just weeks away, and while the race is competitive, it's also open for nonrunners who would just like to participate in the community event.

"It's a competitive race," said Tori Parks, race director of the Turkey Trot and officer of SWEAT Running Club. "But we encourage people of all skill levels to come out."

The main event of the race is a 6-mile loop around the Sacramento River Trail, but there are additional events, including the Diestelhorst Dash, a quarter-mile sprint for kids, a 2-mile walk/run, and a 6-mile wheelchair division.

"For participants who don't have an athletic base to work from, I'd recommend the 2-mile walk/run," Parks said.

The 6-mile race drew 741 runners last year, according to the SWEAT running club.

Both Parks and Deron Cutright, co-owner of Fleet Feet Redding on Hilltop Drive, agree that the 6-mile race shouldn't be too much trouble for those with an aerobic background.

"Or if you're just plain stubborn," Cutright said. "I know a guy who never runs, but he always staggers across the finish line every year."

For those who would rather enjoy the event, Cutright recommends taking a more leisurely pace.

"If you have to, just slow your pace down," Cutright said. "You don't have to run the whole thing."

24th SRMC Turkey Trot

Date

Thursday, November 26, 2009 @ 8:00 AM local time

Address

Lake Redding Park, Redding
2150 Benton Dr.

Registration Closing Date

Monday, November 23, 2009 @ 3:00 AM

Benefits

Proceeds benefit a number of non-profit organizations

Registration

NO RACE DAY REGISTRATION

Important information

All fees are non-refundable; No Race day registration; No sweatshirts will be available after early registration deadline.

Contact info:

Tori Parks 530-515-6157

Packet Pick-up & Late Registration

Packet Pick-up at Fleet Feet Sports, 1376 Hilltop Dr, Redding, 530-226-0600. November 21-November 25 10am -7pm Across from Sears next to Member's One Credit Union

Additional Information

As many as four generations (from a baby in a stroller through great grandparent) of one family has participated in this event. And this year there is an event for kids, the Diestlehorst Dash, a quarter mile sprint for kids eight and under, which takes kids over the Sacramento River on the historical Diestlehorst bridge.

Event Day Schedule:

Diestlehorst Dash: 8:00 a.m.
2 Mile Fun Run: 8:45 a.m.
6 Mile Wheelchair Division: 8:25 a.m.
6 Mile Run: 8:30 a.m.

Bring the family and have fun!