Thanksgiving Monday
The 2024 Granville Island Turkey Trot was a resounding success, with runners and families coming together to celebrate community, fitness, and the spirit of Thanksgiving. The sold-out event drew over 2,000 participants alongside an enthusiastic crowd of family, friends, and supporters, making it one of the most memorable races of the year.
A Sold-Out Race and Vibrant Atmosphere
The Granville Island Turkey Trot saw runners take on the scenic 10KM course, with many participants dressed in their best costumes for the occasion. The family-friendly 1KM Kids Run was also at full capacity, with young runners aged 6-13 taking part in a fun and competitive race on Granville Island.
“We’re beyond excited by the incredible response to this year’s Granville Island Turkey Trot,” adds Race Director, Eric Chéné, noting the 10KM sold-out in record time.
“We’re always impressed by the dedication our runners show, rain or shine,” adds Chéné. “It’s more than just crossing the Finish Line—it’s about the community, the energy, and the shared experience of pushing through together, even when the weather tries to test us!
The 10KM Granville Island Turkey Trot was won by Nikolai Gauer who finished in 35:30. “I run this route quite a bit for my lunch runs, it felt great and it was awesome!” adds Nikolai.
Melanie Van Soeren made an incredible mark in this year’s event as well, finishing first place in the female division, and breaking into the Top 8 all-time fastest female runners with a time of 37:59.
Like Nikolai, Melanie also regularly trains on this course. “I run this route every single week at least once or twice, so it’s really nice to be on a familiar route,” adds Melanie. “It was a really fun time out there, and the volunteers were amazing, especially on such a cold and rainy day.”
In the Kids Run, Jocelyne Chéné made waves by clocking a new record time of 3:45, breaking her own previous record to again secure top spot. Kaiden Howells was the top boy in 3:48. In the 6-9 Division, Mira Lindstrom in 4:48 and Lev Finkel in 4:02 took wins.
“My favorite part of the race was getting to run with my brother, Mihkel, and my friend, Catherine Woo—they both placed second and crossed the Finish Line together,” adds Jocelyne.
Age Category Awards were also presented onstage with winners receiving an additional medal designed by Musqueam artist Darryl Blyth. All enjoyed post-race treats including Lee’s Donuts provided by RUNVAN®.
–
A Heartfelt Thanks to Volunteers
RUNVAN® would like to thank the volunteers who were instrumental in the success of this event. Their commitment, energy, and hard work helped ensure that everything ran seamlessly and created a warm, inclusive environment for everyone involved.
“Our volunteers were absolute champions,” adds Eric Chéné. “Again, even with the rain coming down, they were out there with smiles and kept everything running seamlessly. Their commitment, even in less than ideal conditions, is what truly makes this event a success, and we’re incredibly thankful for their hard work.”
The event isn’t just about running – it’s also about giving back. This year’s event raised over $10,000 for local charities, the Greater Vancouver Food Bank, Surrey Food Bank, and SHARE Family and Community Services.
Best Costume winner Maureen Lai – in an inflatable roast turkey costume – also received a prize from the non-profit event organizers, who redirect all entry fees back into the race itself.
“The hardest part was over the Burrard Bridge and around Science World because of the wind resistance, but I’m glad I was able to run and cheer everyone on,” adds Maureen. “I also had my friends and family out cheering for me.”
Mishaela Wall, who individually raised an impressive $1,337.10, received a bonus thanks with a pair of tickets to also enjoy at The Improv Centre on Granville Island.
Following the success of the Granville Island Turkey Trot, RUNVAN is gearing up for its last event of the year, the Great Trek presented by BlueShore Financial. This exciting race invites participants to explore routes through Musqueam Territory. The Half Marathon is sold out, while limited 10KM and 5KM spots still remain.
Runners are encouraged to register early for all RUNVAN races. The non-profit’s first event of 2025, the First Half, already hit capacity, and the BMO Vancouver Marathon is pacing for its largest registration year ever.
Thank you to everyone who participated and supported the Granville Island Turkey Trot—we can’t wait to see you next year to continue this Thanksgiving tradition!
An additional thanks goes out to Granville Island Turkey Trot partners including Granville Island, Rackets & Runners, Destination BC, viaSportBC, Sport Hosting Vancouver, Alkiss Water, Fitness World, Nuun Hydration, yYoung Pharmacy, Stanley Park Brewing, Greater Vancouver Food Bank, Share Family & Community Services and the Surrey Food Bank.
10KM event records remain with a 31:47 by Paul Martelletti in 2011 and 35:43 by Ellie Greenwood in 2015.
