On a day when families and friends come together to give thanks, the Canton Turkey Trot will mark 20 years of supporting the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan as runners and walkers will work up an appetite for a good cause Thanksgiving morning.
On Thursday, November 24, 2022, starting at 9 a.m., Canton’s annual 5K chip-timed and 1-mile fun run will be held at the Summit on the Park, located at 46000 Summit Parkway in Canton, MI, and will cover a picturesque, flat course that winds through Pheasant Run Golf course, beautiful Heritage Park, ending back at the Summit. In addition, race organizers are once again offering a virtual option, where runners can pick the time and location to suit their preferences. All ages are encouraged to take part in these races, which will benefit the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with seizure disorders.
This annual tradition was started in 2003 by Michael and Terri Murray after their son Justin was diagnosed with epilepsy. Wanting to do something in the fight against epilepsy to help stop seizures, find cures, and save lives, the couple worked with Canton Township to organize the first Thanksgiving Turkey Trot. Justin Murray, who has been seizure free since undergoing brain surgery in 2007 to remove a seizure-causing growth, continues to give back by supporting and volunteering at Canton’s Thanksgiving races, as well as volunteering at the Epilepsy Foundation’s office in Southfield, MI. To date, Canton’s Turkey Trot has raised over $300,000 since its inception.
“Our Turkey Trot has become a popular holiday tradition for many in the Canton community,” said Ann-Marie Carravallah, Sports Recreation Coordinator. “It’s a great opportunity for families and friends to come together, enjoy nature, and get some exercise, all while supporting a great cause.”
This year’s sponsors include: Brooks, Busch’s Food Market, C1X Lacrosse, Canton Leisure Services, Canton Sports Center, Conor O’Neill’s, DO Apparel, Eisai Inc., Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan, Family With A Cause, Gazelle Sports, GCYBSA, IHA Medical Group, Ironwood Grill, J.M. & Sons Plumbing & Mechanical, Kickers Sports Bar & Grill, MY Yoga Room, Park Place Gastropub, and SK Life Science Inc.
This year’s milestone event will be presided over by two special grand marshals: Bridget Murray will be recognized as the 20th Anniversary Grand Marshal, and Lizzie Preston will be the event’s 2022 Grand Marshal.
Pre-registration is available online here. Entry fees for the in-person events are $35 for the 5K and $30 for the 1-mile walk. Virtual event entry fees are $25 for the 5K and $20 for the 1-mile walk. Participants registered by November 10 are guaranteed a race shirt.
Participants can pick up shirts and bibs November 18-22, during store hours at Gazelle’s Sports, located at 39737 Traditions Drive in Northville, as well as on November 23, from 1-6 p.m. at the Summit on the Park, located at 46000 Summit Parkway in Canton.
Established in 1948, the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan is an independently incorporated affiliate of the national Epilepsy Foundation, providing education and consultation services, public awareness, support services, advocacy and employment guidance for people with epilepsy and their families. For more information, visit www.epilepsymichigan.org or call 1-800-377-6226.
For event information, including course map, please visit csc.canton-mi.org or call 734/483-5600.
Original source can be found here.