Turkey Trotters brave the chill

The 130th Annual YMCA Buffalo Niagara Turkey Trot attracted thousands to Delaware Avenue on Thanksgiving morning. The day started especially cold at 35 degrees Fahrenheit, but that didn't stop thousands from showing up at 9 AM ready to race for this YMCA fundraiser.

The Turkey Trot is the oldest consecutively run footrace in the ENTIRE WORLD! The total distance of the race is 8K (4.97 miles) starting at the former YMCA on Delaware Avenue in North Buffalo and finishing at the Buffalo Convention Center. This race helps to fuel the Y’s work to empower youth, promote healthy development, and build strong, thriving communities across Western New York. It's a fun morning and a Buffalo Thanksgiving tradition.

The morning was chilly as the sun was not shining at the starting line, and the winds were blowing at about 25 mph. Many racers were bundled up for the harsh weather and prepared for a brisk to casual walk, but there were many others who did not seem to mind the frigid morning, sporting shorts and running their hearts out at the front of the pack. There were even a few brave souls going shirtless.

The majority of the race follows south on Delaware all the way to the end and then turns on Church Street and then back up Franklin Street to the Buffalo Convention Center.

The sun began to peek out once we past under the New York Central train bridge, which was relieving to say the least as we could loosen our scarves, and remove our gloves. Keeping a steady pace also helped in getting warm.

As this was my first Turkey Trot, it was exciting to learn and be a part of the traditions that build this wonderful community. When you inevitably participate in this run, here are the things to look out for along the route:

• You need to shout as you pass under the first bridge
• Grab a beer or other beverage being handed out by unofficial volunteers
• Catch a donut at the "Donut Drop" when they are thrown down from the Scajaquada Bridge
• Maybe wear a costume for the costume contest and compliment your fellow racers on theirs
• Look for the person carrying a canoe
• Most importantly, have fun spending time with your neighbors and enjoy our unique Buffalo culture

Also, make sure you check the weather and dress for the occasion, pack water, STRETCH, have fun and be safe.

The bulk of the race was comfortable. Once you get past the starting line, you start to appreciate the beautiful sights and comradery that come from living in this city. However, as we arrived downtown, the winds picked back up and almost blew a few people over. We bundled back up a bit, but soon we crossed the finish line.

The event hosts a celebration inside the convention center that featured drinks, snacks, commemorative cozies and an awesome rock band. They also offer a shuttle bus that takes racers back to the starting line so you don't have to walk the almost 5 miles again.

Altogether, it's a event for a great cause and made me very grateful on this Thanksgiving day to have a home in this gorgeous city of good neighbors.

If your interested joining the Turkey Trot next year, check out their website HERE!