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By Ray Hamill — Thanksgiving is almost here and that means it’s almost time for the Turkey Trot, an annual fundraiser for local cross country and track and field programs.

The race will take place in Old Town Eureka on Thanksgiving morning and has quickly grown into a big event, attracting as many as 1,000 runners recently, according to race organizers.

“It’s a big tradition,” College of the Redwoods cross country and track and field coach Reed Elmore said. “We get a lot of athletes coming home that week, and for the running community, it’s a big deal.”

Proceeds from the event will go to fund local H-DNL, College of the Redwoods and Humboldt State programs.

“It’s a great way to get some exercise before you eat a bunch of turkey,” Elmore said.

The winner in each division will receive a prize of a pie.

The racing action gets under way at 9 a.m., with registration beginning at 7:30 a.m. at the Gazebo in Old Town.

Runners can also register beforehand at the Jogg’n shoppe in Arcata.

For more information call the Jogg’n Shoppe at 822-3136.