More than 9,000 runners and walkers from 46 states are expected to flock to scenic Oceanside to “move their feet before they eat” at the 12th Annual Pacific Marine Credit Union O’side Turkey Trot and Kids Run, presented by Tri-City Medical Center, on Thanksgiving Day, November 23. The Tri-City Medical Center Senior Mile, a race for runners and walkers 65 and older, takes place the day before. 

Featuring scenic tours of this classic California beach community, the 10k and 5K run/walk will kick off at 6:55 a.m. and 8:10 a.m. respectively, starting on historic Highway 101 at the Civic Center (located at 330 N. Coast Highway) and finishing on The Strand just south of the iconic Oceanside Pier.  The 5K walk begins at 8:45 a.m. All races feature live entertainment along the courses. 

“The morning run and walk has quickly become an annual Thanksgiving tradition for many families, not only for local San Diego County residents but for those who travel here for the holiday weekend,” said Kathy Kinane, race director and president of Kinane Events.

The family-oriented event also includes one- to ¼-mile kids runs starting at 10:30 a.m., and a 3-day health expo with packet pick up. New this year, the O’side Trot will have a $1,000 Costume Contest prize purse.

“The primary objective of the Turkey Trot is to get families outside and active together on a day that people routinely stay in,” said Kinane. 

Runners and walkers also have the opportunity to form a team. New this year, the top 10 teams with the most members receive $100 gift certificates from 333 Pacific, a steak and seafood restaurant in Oceanside. Companies are encouraged to form teams, which builds unity among co-workers. Turkey Trot staff can help companies form teams and register.  More than 50 teams participated in the 2016 event. The largest teams were Team Austin Bice, with 376 team members, the Tri-City Medical Center with 163 members, and Genentech with 70 members.

Entrants can designate part of their entry fees to support local schools and non-profits. The race also directly benefits the Move Your Feet Before You Eat Foundation, a charity founded by Kinane Events to promote physical activity and a Live Well San Diego Recognized Partner. The PMCU O'side Turkey Trot has raised more than $270,000 for its participating charities.

For more information, to register or to volunteer, please visit www.osideturkeytrot.com or call (760) 434-5255.