While some turkeys were cooking, others were running this Thanksgiving morning. The 7th Annual Coffee Pot Turkey Trot welcomed an astounding crowd of runners, walkers, and fans cheering them on last Thursday morning.
More than 3,000 participants registered, alongside a community of supporters and volunteers that lined the streets and surrounded the finish line as the beloved Thanksgiving race took place. This year’s race once again saw pies go to the winners, as all celebrated on the other side of the finish line.
This year’s overall winner was St. Pete resident Dylan Bailey (time: 15:50), a freshman at Florida Southern, and it was, impressively, his fourth time winning the race out of the seven years it has been hosted. In fact, the full top three had a familiar feel, as it was three friends who have been running the Turkey Trot together for years. Eli Zuppa (15:54) and Cole Summers (16:15) finished second and third, respectively.
The top three female finishers were Lucy Brookham of Portland, Oregon (18:54), followed by two St. Pete locals, Diana Palacios (19:21) and Nicole Kala (19:30). In addition to tasty pies, the top male and female finishers won a free pair of shoes from Feet First.
Didn’t get to run this year? Keep an eye out for early registration next year. The annual 5K always sells out, and registration is cheaper the earlier you secure your spot. Registration for the 8th Annual Coffee Pot Turkey Trot will open in the summer of 2024.
Looking back at Turkey Trot 2023
Winner, winner…turkey dinner?
It’s never too early to make plans for a day full of food and loved ones, and now is the perfect time to get started. Registration for the 2023 Coffee Pot Turkey Trot 5K is now open, with the beloved annual run taking place on Thanksgiving morning, November 23, at 7:45 am. Registration for the Coffee Pot Turkey Trot is $40.
The USATF-certified 5K route begins and ends at North Shore Elementary, winding its way through Old Northeast, Snell Isle, and Northeast Park, before finishing back at the school for post-race snacks, coffee, and awards. And of course, winners in each age category will be taking home a free pie, as is tradition.
The seventh annual race will be capped at 3,000 runners, and registration prices increase as the event gets closer, so we certainly recommend getting your spot before it fills up, as this one of St. Pete’s most popular annual races. All participants receive a commemorative medal and a t-shirt, in men’s or women’s cut, while there will also be prizes for overall winners in the male and female categories, master’s categories, and best costume.
As always, the race is family-friendly, and is again presented by Northstar Realty: Georgia and Kirby, and is hosted by the North Shore Elementary PTA to benefit North Shore Elementary, a Title One School. North Shore Elementary is located at 200 35th Avenue NE, and free parking is available in the area surrounding the school.
“We are excited to continue the tradition that has become such a staple of Thanksgiving celebrations in our community,” said Race Committee Chairperson Heather Dewyze. “The race gives friends and neighbors, kids and parents, a chance to get together to exercise and socialize before the holiday festivities get going! And what could be better than pies for prizes?”
Learn more and register for the Coffee Pot Turkey Trot here.
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