Most runners ever recorded at 19th annual Granville Island Turkey Trot
Nearly 1,600 participated in the family-friendly 10KM on Thanksgiving Weekend.
Vancouver, BC – October 10, 2016 –
The Granville Island Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Monday saw a record-breaking number of participants in its 19 year history. Nearly 1,600 runners, walkers, and strollers crossed the Finish Line of the beautiful 10KM route around False Creek.
The Vancouver community really showed incredible support to helping others as runners raised money and donated non-perishable food to support the event’s charity partners, Arts Umbrella and Quest Food Exchange.
“Its great to see the community come out in record numbers in the spirit of Thanksgiving,” says Graeme White, Executive Director of the Vancouver International Marathon Society, organizers of the event. “This event continues to grow with great support from Granville Island, sponsors, volunteers, and participants at large.”
High spirits and great costumes were displayed as runners aged 13-80+ conquered the fun 10KM course. Notable costumes included a ‘Giant Squirrel’ and of course, several ‘Turkeys’.
First to cross the line was 22 year-old Christian Gravel who finished in a blazing time of 33:08. “The course was beautiful and well organized,” said Gravel. “I especially love the design of the medal.”
New this year, finishers received a beautiful medal with a design featuring the iconic Granville Island bridge sign. Gold, silver, and bronze medals were awarded to the top finishers in each age category, and $500 was awarded to the “Mosquito Creek Hyenas” who came out with the largest team.
Fun prizes donated by local Granville Island merchants were also presented to those who donated to the non-profit Vancouver International Marathon Society’s local charity partners.
Runners can now enjoy their celebratory free Stanley Park Beer at Mahony & Sons and their $20 Rackets & Runners gift card valid on New Balance product by the end of the month. For every redeemed $20 gift card, Rackets & Runners will further donate a pound of food to Quest Food Exchange.
The Granville Island Turkey Trot was the second of the three RUNVAN® race series events. Next up, is the Fall Classic run at UBC on November 13, which features a 5KM, 10KM, and 21.1KM.
Participants who compete in the 2016 BMO Vancouver Marathon, Granville Island Turkey Trot, and Fall Classic in the same calendar year will score the RUNVAN® Hat-trick and be rewarded with an exclusive long-sleeve technical shirt. The Fall Classic is also tracking to be a record-breaking event with increased capacity of 33% in all event categories.
“The Vancouver International Marathon Society is excited to continue to grow great local events that bring communities together,” concludes White.
