Grand Rapids Public Schools Turkey Trot

Pumpkin Pies to:
   -1st Place Overall M/F
   -1st Place Masters M/F (40+)
   -1st Place in each of the following age groups M/F:
      (10 & Under, 11-14, 15-18, 19-24, 25-29, 30-34,35-39,40-44,45-49,50-54,55-59,60-64,65-69,70-74,75-79,80+)

Q: What are event the start times?  A: LMCU Mini Trot start 8:10a. My Team Triumph start 8:27a. Community 5k Run/Walk start 8:30a.

Q: Where is the start and finish line?  A: Start line is located in front of the Van Andel arena on Fulton St.  Finish line is located on Ottawa at Weston. 

Q: Where do I park on race morning?  A :City street parking and Ellis lots will be available at the regular rates. Meters will not be enforced for street parking. Be sure to arrive with plenty of time to park and walk to starting line. More information can be found at the following link: https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Residents/Parking-and-Mobility/Downtown-Visitor-Mobility-and-Parking-Guide

Q: Are there course time limits?  A: The streets will be closed to traffic for one hour at which point participants still on course will need to move to the sidewalks for their own safety. 

Q: Will there be aid stations on the course?  A: Yes, there will be one water stop near the half way point.

Q: Can I bring my dog?  A: No, Four legged friends will need to sit this one out for the safety and comfort of all participants.

Q: What do I get with my 5k registration?  A: A shirt, and a timing bib. Shirt sizing not guaranteed after Oct. 31, 2024. If you have registered on or after 11/21/2024 race shirts are not guaranteed as orders are placed far in advance of race day. Please note ALL participants are required to wear timing bib provided at pick up in order to receive an official time. For your safety, we ask that you run with your correct bib.  There is no bandit running allowed. Those observed with incorrect participant bib or no bib will be disqualified and unable to participate in future Turkey Trot events.

Should you place in your age category, medals are awarded to the top three finishers and available for pick up following the event in the awards room just inside the Van Andel arena.

Q: What will a LMCU Mini Trot participant receive for their registration? A: Participants will receive a medal, but please be advised with this registration there will be no tee shirt provided. The course is a .4 mile loop around the Van Andel arena and parents are welcome to run with their child.

Q: Can I walk or jog with my stroller?  A: Strollers are welcome. We ask that if you intend to walk with a stroller that you please line up at the back of the group start. 

Q: I have registered for the VIRTUAL event, when do I need to have this completed? A: The recommended window for completion is the week of the holiday (11/24-11/30) This is, however, an on your honor effort. There will be no awards for this category. We welcome you to join us in support and run when you can, where you are, even if you are traveling. Packets to be mailed race week.

Q: I do not run but would like to volunteer. How do I sign up?  A: Awesome! It takes a tribe! We need volunteers race week and race day both. Sign up here: https://volunteersignup.org/PX9XA Please contact the following email with questions! turkeytrotvolunteer@grps.org

Q: Group discount: I am a part of a club or organization that wants to participate as a group. Is there a discount for groups?  A: The Turkey Trot is a fundraising event on behalf of Grand Rapids Public School scholars, we will offer discounts at our discretion in order to maintain alignment with this goal. Follow the Facebook event page here: facebook.com/grandrapidsturkeytrot for Tom the Turkey surprise pop-ups all over town this training season! ​ We also encourage our local business owners to support the health and wellness of your staff by signing up to be a corporate wellness sponsor. Email Matt Hoffman at matt@grpsf.org to find out how! 

Q: Can I request a refund or defer?  A: We understand life happens, but the Grand Rapids Public Schools Turkey Trot provides crucial fundraising for their Great Sports programming and has costs incurred from contracted services. We are unable to provide refunds or deferrals.

Q: How do I change my shirt size?  A: Changes may be made online prior to the event by October 31, 2024 at 11:59pm. Shirt changes made after this date cannot be guaranteed.

• Log into your RunSignUp account
• In your profile, scroll to the bottom of the screen and find “my registered races”
• Find your Turkey Trot registration.  Select “manage”
• Select “Giveaway” and modify your shirt size/style

*Tech shirt quantities are limited and participants may exchange sizes following the event based on availability. 

Q. When and where is packet pick-up?  A. The following options will be available race week:

Tuesday, Nov. 26 • 3:30 - 7:00 pm • Blue Care Network, 611 Cascade W Pkwy SE

Wednesday, Nov. 27 • 8:00 am - 2:00 pm • Union High School, 1800 Tremont Blvd NW

Wednesday, Nov. 27 • 3:30 - 7:00 pm • Gazelle Sports, 3930 28th Street SE

RACE DAY! Thursday, Nov. 28 • 6:30-8:00AM • Van Andel Arena

Q: Something came up and I did not run on race day. Can I still pick up my swag?  A: Swag and age group awards will be available following the event at the Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation office the Tuesday and Thursday following the event during regular office hours (10-5p) 125 Ottawa SW Grand Rapids MI.