By Jessica Tuggle
jtuggle@hometownnewsol.com
VERO BEACH - Joanne Alexander's Thanksgiving traditions are no longer just about sitting around a table with a plateful of turkey, gravy, cranberry sauce and stuffing. She and her family now throw a little sweat into the equation.
Ms. Alexander, her pomeranian, Tree-Tree, and several other members of her family have made it a Thanksgiving tradition to participate in the annual Turkey Trot Against Hunger 5k run/walk to benefit Harvest Food and Outreach Center.
"We used to live in Indian River County and our son and daughter-in-law still live here," said Ms. Alexander, recently of Key West.
For Ms. Alexander, participating in the race reminds her to be thankful for the provisions she has and also reminds her to think of others who may not have enough.
"I would do this every holiday if they had it. It really starts off the holiday right," Ms. Alexander said.
Those sentiments echoed perfectly those of Debbie Mackay of Vero Beach.
"It's a huge activity and it starts the holiday on the right emphasis, family and thankfulness," Ms. Mackay said.
"You don't have to be a runner, you can walk and get excited about it," she said.
The fifth annual race will be held on Nov. 22 at Riverside Park in Vero Beach.
Race day check in and day of registration begins at 6:30 a.m. Advance registration is $25 or $30 on race day, said Kristin Sposato, director of donor relations.
Runners and spectators are asked to bring a non-perishable food item for the Harvest Food emergency food pantry.
"This is the largest 5k race on the Treasure Coast and it will provide approximately 75,000 meals and other outreach services such as education, crisis counseling and job readiness training," Ms. Sposato said.
About 1,000 race participants are expected.
"It really has a significant impact and illustrates how Vero Beach, Indian River County, St. Lucie County and people from all over are supporting us," she said.
The children's race, which is under 1-mile long, begins at 7:15 a.m., while the 5k run/walk begins at 7:30 a.m.
A sweet potato pancake breakfast, provided by Marsh Landing restaurant in Fellsmere, complimented by Natalie's Orchid Island orange juice, begins at 8 a.m.
"It's going to be a wonderful morning, a beautiful day, with multi-generational participants, repeat attendees and some who bring their pets. It's a very unique race and a wonderful way to share appreciation for your blessings and share a blessing with others," Ms. Sposato said.
To register or for more information, call (772) 569-7364 or visit www.trotagainsthunger.org.