Annual Turkey Trot slated

RITZVILLE – For the past 35 years, residents, families and friends have gathered at the New Ritz Theater to stroll, jog or trot along the path winding through the fairgrounds, above the Haag baseball fields, past Little League fields and back to the starting point on Main Street.

The Turkey Trot is scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m. Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 24.

Participants can register on a clipboard at the theater.

Kids and canines, grownups and toddlers are welcome, organizers said.

In 2020, 61 people signed in and enjoyed the trot.

In previous years, Harriett and Mike Lynch greeted folks at the starting line, but for the past few year’s the event has been independently run.

That means you’re on your own. Don’t expect a pistol to signal the start. No need to glance sideways at stopwatch-wielding officials at the finish.

Harriett Lynch encourages folks to keep up the tradition.

“This invigorating walk continues to provide families and friends a healthful start to Thanksgiving with fresh air and conversation along the route,” she said.

“Make it as much fun as you can. The spirit is the same and at the end, you’ve done it.”