Move Reflects Increasing Popularity of Thanksgiving Day Tradition
Year-over-year of unprecedented growth have led the 44th annual YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth Turkey Trot to establish a new starting line in Downtown Fort Worth. The updated location is designed to accommodate the race’s ever-growing popularity and the increasing number of individuals and families who make the Trot a Thanksgiving tradition. Taking place for the first time in the heart of the city, the new route will also offer iconic views, as participants pass the Tarrant County Courthouse, Sundance Square, the Trinity River, and, of course, the YMCA’s Downtown Fort Worth Branch.
The Trot is making the move after two years at The Shops at Clearfork. This year’s starting lines will be located in front of Bass Hall at 525 Commerce St., with the finish line and other activities taking place near General Worth Square in front of the Fort Worth Convention Center.
Last year, more than 12,000 people, spectators, and pets participated in 5K and 8K races and the children’s Gobbler Trot. Trot organizers say the new location allows the YMCA to welcome more participants, build greater awareness, and continue growing the Trot’s impact for years to come.
All proceeds from Turkey Trot registration fees support YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth programs that benefit the overall well-being of individuals residing in Tarrant, Johnson, Parker, and Hood counties.
“The Turkey Trot is more than a fun holiday tradition; it’s a powerful engine for good. It fuels a mission that touches thousands of lives each year,” said Mike Brown, president and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth. “Thanks to the incredible generosity of our sponsors and participants, this event has helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars to ensure access to YMCA programs that change lives, from afterschool care and early education to financial literacy for teens and seniors. It even supports critical health initiatives for cancer survivors and individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.”
This marks the third year that Texas Health Resources will serve as presenting sponsor for the annual event, which is also supported by Moritz Dealerships.
“Texas Health is proud to continue our long-standing affiliation with the YMCA Turkey Trot,” said Jared Shelton, president of Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth. “We believe wellness begins outside our hospital walls, and the Turkey Trot is a perfect way to celebrate health, friendship, and community spirit.”
“We look forward to showcasing our city to all the families and visitors who make the Trot part of their Thanksgiving tradition,” Brown said. “Every step taken on race day helps someone in our community take a step toward a better future.”
Turkey Trot volunteer opportunities and additional sponsorship options are available. To learn more or to register as a Trot participant, visit www.fwtrot.org or follow the race on Facebook @FWTROT.
About the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth
The YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to put Christian principles into practice through programs, services and relationships that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. The organization seeks to transform lives by ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to grow and thrive, regardless of age, income, or background. Established in 1890, when Fort Worth was just a frontier town, the YMCA now directly serves Tarrant, Johnson, Parker, and Hood counties and impacts more than 100,000 residents each year, through 10 dedicated facilities, more than 50 program locations and numerous programs and services across the region. The YMCA is focused on strategic priorities in youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Programs and services are available at YMCA locations in Bedford, Benbrook, Fort Worth, Granbury, and Joshua. Facilities include community centers as well as a sports complex and a 360-acre camp along the banks of the Trinity River. For more information, visit YMCAFW.org.
