Thanksgiving Turkey Trot races are an annual tradition for many runners across the nation. With the COVID-19 pandemic still wreaking havoc on many IRL (in real life) race opportunities, the good folks at Ram Racing provided a solution to keep the tradition alive.

America’s Turkey Trot Virtual Run was able to bring the feeling of Thanksgiving racing to everyone through the virtual race format. A really cool feature of the event was the ability for racers to choose their local or regional Turkey Trot during registration, adding an additional feeling of community to the virtual process.

In keeping with the season of thanks and giving, the race also featured Feeding America as their official race charity partner. Feeding America is the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization and has food banks, pantries, and meal programs all across the U.S. It’s always nice to see race organizers partnering with worthy causes.

Once you register for the race online, your race kit is mailed directly to you. It’s a great Thanksgiving-themed package that includes your personalized race bib, finisher’s medal, full-length zipper jacket with detachable hood, and a beanie. All of the included swag was of high quality and a really nice touch for this race. They also provide extra products that you can upgrade your order with for an additional fee.

While I opted for the half marathon option, there were many options to fit everyone’s running tastes. From 1 mile to 5k, 10k, and half marathon there was something for everyone to get out and moving.

I ended up traveling south to Florida for the holiday and was able to run my race down there on Thanksgiving morning. I made use of the Pensacola Beach Run half marathon course and treated it like a long training run. The temps were high (lower 80s) for late November. Even though the heat zapped me by the end, it was a great virtual race experience. I had my finisher’s medal waiting back at the car for me when I completed my 13.1 and crossed that virtual finish line.

Once completed you can easily report your race time and see where you place in the standings. The race also provides downloadable finisher’s certificates. While virtual races may not be everyone’s choice of preference, this one was a great opportunity to keep the Turkey Trot tradition alive. Plus, who doesn’t love great race swag?