20th Annual Turkey Trot Was Huge Success

By Greg Blanco

On Thanksgiving, over a thousand people participated in the 20th Annual Merril Lynch Turkey Trot. People from far and near assembled at historical, St. Paul's to help raise money for the fight against Leukemia.

At 6 a.m., when most people were home in their beds sleeping in on their day off, volunteers from the Garden City High School were at St. Paul's preparing for the event. The Key Club set up a table with beverages and doughnuts (for the not so competitive runners). For the more serious runners, sponsor Power Bar provided complimentary bars of whichever tasty flavor the runners preferred. Volunteer worker, Chris Matteini commented, "Thanksgiving is one of those days when people forget about any problems they have and concentrate on helping others."

The participants came despite the gusty 35 mph winds and cold temperature. There were enough smiles to warm everyone. St. Paul's was a stomping ground where families came and took part in something together. Children rooted for mommy and daddy. Siblings raced each other with laughter. Parents ran with their babies in strollers.

The race started approximately at 9 a.m. and was won by Christopher Graf with an impressive time of 24:24. Spectators showed their support as the runners crossed the finish line one by one.

The Turkey Trot was a huge success and the money made will benefit Leukemia. Jim Ash of Chester County, PA concludes, "The Turkey Trot is a wonderful, annual tradition and benefit."