Artwork by Jennifer Ding

Owen Yardley ‘25

CENTER FEATURES EDITOR

For the fourth year in a row, hundreds from the Unionville community will line up to race in the Kennett Square Turkey Trot, taking place on November 28. With competitors selecting the 5K race or 1-mile walk, the event is not only a fun, competitive tradition, but also an endorser to important programs in the area. The Turkey Trot was created "as a community-wide event to bring everyone together on Thanksgiving," said Chris Valis, head coach of the varsity boys baseball team. It was created not only to give an opportunity for the community to come together, but also to raise money for the baseball and softball programs. According to Coach Valis, "the baseball and softball teams came together three years ago to start this event, a fundraiser for both programs. The money raised from the event goes toward supporting needs for the team, including uniforms and equipment.

Besides raising funds for the teams, the Turkey Trot is also considered a payback event to the community. Donations to the Kennett Food Cupboard, which provides food for needy families, are accepted during the event. According to varsity softball coach and health and PE teacher, Amanda Panati, "It is also a way for us to give back to the community since we take donations that we bring to the Kennett Food Cupboard." The charity makes the Turkey Trot more than just running or walking; it is a way that participants can give back to the less fortunate during the holiday season.

Planning the Turkey Trot takes a lot of time and effort. According to Coach Panati, the softball and baseball teams’ boosters began planning for the event as the previous season is still going on. They start piecing it together towards the end of April, and "about 3 months out is when things really start to solidify.” This includes recruiting volunteers, securing donations, setting up the race, and making sure everything is in place for the big day. It is clear that the Turkey Trot takes a lot of work to put on, and the organizers' dedication ensures that the process goes smoothly every year.

Overall, the Turkey Trot is an example of how a community can come together for good causes to raise funds for local sports teams, help provide food for those in need, and give families an opportunity to get outside and participate in a healthy activity.