The Thanksgiving morning tradition of the Del Ray Turkey Trot will celebrate its 50th year Nov. 27 as thousands of runners take to the streets of Alexandria with retired Circuit Court Judge Jim Clark leading the way as Grand Marshal.
Clark, a varsity runner during his days at T.C. Williams High School (now Alexandria City High School), has run each race since its inception in 1975. He and then-mayor Jim Moran were among the original runners in the 5-mile race through the streets of Del Ray. The 2024 race attracted more than 6,000 participants.
Runners will be joined by walkers, families and furry friends as the race milestone marks half a century of a tradition that blends fitness, community spirit, and holiday cheer.
The race will begin at 9 a.m. at George Washington Middle School, 1005 Mount Vernon Avenue. The school also serves as the finish line for the 5-mile run/walk through Del Ray. Strollers and dogs are welcome, with designated starting areas.
Online registration is open until 6 a.m. on race day, with early packet pickup scheduled from Nov. 23–25 at Alexandria Toyota, Pacers Running in Old Town, and additional pickup on Nov. 26. Race-day pickup runs from 7:30 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. before the 9 a.m. start.
Participants are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items to support ALIVE!, Alexandria’s oldest and largest private safety net organization dedicated to fighting poverty and hunger. Over the years, this event has donated thousands of pounds of food and raised significant funds for local families in need.
The first Alexandria Turkey Trot took place in 1975, drawing 244 runners. Today, it is one of the Mid-Atlantic’s premier Thanksgiving Day races. The USATF-certified course attracts both elite athletes and casual runners.
To register or for more information, visit www.alexandriaturkeytrot.com