It’s time to dust off your running shoes and consider building up a nice little calorie (and maybe oxygen) deficit that might just let you indulge in an extra piece of pumpkin pie later in the day, as a pair of Thankgiving Day 5K (3.1-mile) races — both of which will be held on Thursday, November 24 — are right around the corner.
The fourth annual “Wiregrass Wobble” 5K is scheduled for Thanksgiving Day at the Shops at Wiregrass mall, with 5K runners heading out at 7:30 a.m. and the 1-mile Fun/Run/Walk (which might earn you half an extra piece of pie) will be held at 8:15 a.m.
The event has raised more than $75,000 since the inaugural run in 2013, with proceeds this year supporting the Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel Foundation, FITNiche Foundation and the Rotary Club of New Tampa’s selected charities.
The Brass Tap will host post-race awards and festivities, 8:15 a.m.-10 a.m. and Pioneer Medical Group is the presenting sponsor.
The pre-registration donation is $30, and can be done online at WiregrassWobbleTurkeyTrot.com. If you register the day of the race, the suggested donation is $35. The event also will feature the School Team Competition (won by the Wiregrass Ranch High boys and Wharton High girls last year) and a Corporate Team event.
Looking to be part of an even bigger crowd of runners? The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA’s “Goody Goody Turkey Gobble” 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk will also be held Thanksgiving morning, starting at 7 a.m. Goody Goody, the title sponsor, is providing free breakfast to all participants in the race, which begins and ends at Amalie Arena in downtown Tampa. The race route takes runners across the Platt St. Bridge and along scenic Bayshore Blvd. Strollers and dogs are welcome.
The YMCA says 100 percent of the proceeds raised will support the Livestrong at the YMCA program for cancer survivors and their families. Registration is $35 for the 5K, and $15 for the 1-mile. Prices go up on the day of the race. To register, visit RunSignUp.com. — John C. Cotey
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