The Turkey Trot is an annual tradition that’s been maintained for 47 years, making this year the 48th. The 8 mile run leads through downtown Dallas and ends at Dallas city hall. The event was created and run by volunteers, and this year is seeing over 2000 volunteers work. Senior Eighmy Dobbins and her family not only participate in the run, but work and organize the run every year.

“My dad, Eddie Dobbins, has worked at the Dallas YMCA since 1985, and has worked the run ever since,” Dobbins said. “The rest of my family has helped out for about 10 years now.”

The Turkey Trot gathers in runners from 49 states and 6 different countries and stands as the largest YMCA event in the world.

“Time magazine labeled the Turkey Trot as the second biggest Thanksgiving event, right behind the Macy’s day parade,” Mr. Dobbins said.

The run accumulates about 35,000 runners, 15,000 spectators, and even 1200 dogs per year.

“Last year I actually volunteered in the dog area where the dogs can stay and play while their owners run, and my favorite part was playing with all of them,” Dobbins said.  “Also, seeing people I know at the Trot was really cool since it is such a big event.”

The run raises funds for the local Dallas community.

“3,000 kids in local apartments throughout the Dallas YMCA service area were able to receive free swim lessons at their apartments,” Mr. Dobbins said.

The trot is a current Guinness Book of World Records holder, with the event that holds the most people dressed up in costume. Many of the participants wore turkey costumes in order to achieve this record, and add a little fun to the run.

“I was actually one of the people dressed up as a turkey,” Dobbins said. “So technically I’m a world record holder!”

The Turkey Trot has become a tradition for Dobbins and her family over the years.

“The Trot is our traditional Thanksgiving,” Dobbins said. “It’s been in the family since I can remember and all of us participate in it in someway.”

The Turkey Trot is held near the Dallas City Hall on Thanksgiving day at 8:40. To register, visit thetrot.org.