21st YMCA Turkey Trot in Colorado Springs draws in thousands

About 500 more runners than last year took their mark for the 21st annual YMCA Turkey Trot Thursday in Colorado Springs.

This year’s 4,400 participants set a new record.

“I checked in quite a few people who are from different places: Missouri, California, Florida,” said Shannon Bertram with the YMCA. “So it is a great family event and people want to come to visit for the holidays and they want to make sure they take part in this before they spend time with family and friends.”

People of all ages, including first-time runners, parents, and grandparents, all stress the importance of this event.

Jason Mathis said, “It’s a good tradition to do before you eat a lot of food.”

While Linda Riley added, “I know it’s a great fundraiser for the YMCA, which obviously does a lot of good for the community as a whole, and you know, it’s nice to get out there and burn a couple of calories before you get home and spend some good time with your family.”

Even Santa Claus was on hand to spread a special message.

“I want everyone here today, big hugs and big smiles, because you can’t give a hug or a smile without getting one back,” said Santa.

All the proceeds will help fund people in need and help benefit the community by funding YMCA’s programs like teaching kids to swim and how to live healthily.