Annual Manasquan Turkey Run to Take Place on November 22

After 27 years, the annual and always anticipated Turkey Trot will change names to the Manasquan Turkey Run.

After 31 years and 30 races (the race was cancelled in 2012 because of the devastation Manasquan suffered as the result of Superstorm Sandy) the grand tradition of the name “Turkey Trot” will be replaced this year with the “Manasquan Turkey Run”.

Harry and Pat Hoey, who successfully ran the event for the past 27 years, have decided to retire. During the Hoey’s tenure, the organization has donated more than $750,000 to local non-profits.

A committee was formed in September of this year to ensure the traditional event continued. Unfortunately, because the original name is incorporated, the event has changed names from the Turkey Trot to the Turkey Run. Carmen Triggiano, the Hoey’s neighbor was selected to be the new Race Director.

“The race is the same as it has been in the past,” Mr. Triggiano said. “It’s the same course, just a different name. We are hoping to have big crowds.”

The event, which will hold a one-mile run and five-mile run, will take place on Saturday, November 22. The one-mile is open to any number of runners and starts at 10 a.m. at the corner of Stockton and First Avenues and end at the Little League fields on Second Avenue. The five-mile run is limited to 2,000 runners and begins at 11 a.m., just past Brielle Road on First Avenue and ends at the Little League fields on Second Avenue.

Prizes will be given out to the first 25 male and 25 female runners that cross the finish line. All participants under 12 years old will also receive a medal.

Participants can register online at www.jerseyrunner.com. Applications will also be available in many local businesses, bars and restaurants. T-shirt, number bib pick-up and registration begins on Thursday, November 20 at the Manasquan Beach House from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday pick-up and registration will take place at Leggett’s from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.; and pick-up and registration on race day will commence at 8:30 a.m. at the Manasquan/Brielle Little League building, Second Ave., Manasquan.

As always, all of the proceeds will go to local charities. Any other inquiries should be directed via email togio@jerseyrunner.com.