02 Dec The 13th Annual Turkey Trot LA Returned with Record Breaking Attendance
The 13th annual Turkey Trot Los Angeles returned to Downtown Los Angeles on Thanksgiving morning. A record-breaking 7,000 runners and walkers dressed as Thanksgiving turkeys and pies, raised over $85,000 for those experiencing homelessness for The Midnight Mission. The Turkey Trot has raised more than half million dollars since it began in 2013.
The Turkey Day charity run has become a holiday tradition for many Angelenos to help raise money for those in need. Participants went from the historic Los Angeles City Hall around Grand Park, past the world-famous Disney Concert Hall, the Broad Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and down historic Spring Street. Four races in all took place this morning: 5k, 10k, the one-mile Widdle Wobble for kids ages 2-12 (with mom or dad in tow), as well as the one-mile Dog Jog, which was sponsored by Centinela Feed & Pet.
Funds raised will help remove obstacles to self-sufficiency and provide the accountability and structure that people who are experiencing homelessness need to rejoin their communities.
This year’s first-place male winner for the 10k was Oscar Orozco from Los Angeles, whose time was 34:50 and the female 10k winner was Brittaney Talbot from Los Angeles whose time was 39:46. The male first-place winner of the 5k was Charles Simon from Los Angeles who completed the course in 16:53, and the female 5k winner was Kathleen Elkins from Santa Monica, whose time was 20:18. All first-place winners received a unique finisher medal.
For a complete list of results, go to http://turkeytrot.la/results.
“We are grateful to bring the Turkey Trot LA back to Downtown Los Angeles for its 13th year, giving Angelenos an opportunity to come together in the spirit of gratitude and community,” said Generic Events Co-Founder Brennan Lindner. “Thanksgiving is a day to give thanks — not only with our families and friends, but for our entire city. Turkey Trot LA is the perfect way to celebrate Los Angeles, while making a meaningful impact by supporting The Midnight Mission and helping those experiencing homelessness.”
“We are beyond thrilled with the fundraising efforts of this year’s Turkey Trot,” said David Prentice, President & CEO of The Midnight Mission. “The Midnight Mission helps people regain self-sufficiency and combat the issues surrounding homelessness. Gratitude in action helps create bridges to significant transformation. We are honored to align with these extraordinary groups to raise awareness for people living on our streets who are hungry and without a home.”
“This was our biggest Turkey Trot yet! We couldn’t be more thrilled with the support from this amazing community! All the sponsors and partners are what make this event so special!” – Michelle Lindner, Generic Events Co-Founder
The UAE Consulate General in Los Angeles returned as the Gratitude Partner for Turkey Trot LA in efforts to promote community and charity. “As we celebrate the ‘Year of Community’ in the UAE, I can think of no better way to honor this commitment than through our 10th year of partnership with The Midnight Mission, supporting our neighbors in need,” said Hessa Alshuwaihi, Consul General of the UAE in Los Angeles.
Participants enjoyed memorable photo opportunities with the 20-foot-tall turkey in front of the City Hall finish line. After they crossed the finish line, they were invited to celebrate at the feather-ruffling post-event festival in Gloria Molina Grand Park with music, giveaways, and more Turkey Day fun.
This year’s event is also proudly sponsored by Simply Pop and Centinela Feed & Pet.
For more information, please go to www.turkeytrot.la.