Annual turkey trot in Washington Township breaks attendance records

More than 900 participants gobbled up the chance to run or walk during the annual Thanksgiving Day Kiski Valley Turkey Trot in Washington Township.

The in-person race that draws runners from neighboring states kicked off at 9 a.m. under blue skies and below-freezing temperatures.

Organizers set up multiple fire barrels for participants to huddle around and warm up.

Many of the runners donned turkey hats and garb, including emcee and volunteer Joshua Strunk, who was decked out in a full-body turkey suit.

“We’re here to raise some money for a great charity,” Strunk told the crowd.

Last year, the event raised $35,000, said Duane Prusia, president of the Kiski Area Youth Network, the recipient of all monies raised.

The 5K rural race departed and ended from Kunkle Park in Apollo and was digitally timed, with race awards given out during a closing ceremony.

More than 900 runners participate Thursday morning in the 2022 Kiski Valley Turkey Trot in Washington Township. ⁦@VNDNews⁩ ⁦@TribLIVE⁩ pic.twitter.com/9EmL8YdIJa

— Joyce Hanz (@hanz_joyce) November 24, 2022

An untimed 1-mile fun run also was offered.

The event is one of the Youth Network’s largest fundraisers and included a mix of serious runners, children and walkers — and dogs, too.

The money raised is used for the group’s operational costs and to support various clubs in the Kiski Area School District.

The Youth Network is made up of area churches, volunteers and organizations with a goal of sharing youth ministry services with high school students.

Burrell High School student Emma Spiering, 15, of Upper Burrell ran with an oversized turkey hat on her head.

“I’m doing this in honor of the Burrell swim team,” she said.