Turkey Trot continues in 2020

The Turkey Trot, a Thanksgiving morning tradition, now in its 33rd year, will operate as about everything else in 2020, as a different event. The trot will be self-started, self-guided with the goal being the same as in all of its years- get outside, get some exercise for a healthy start to Thanksgiving.

Traditionally participants begin in unison from in front of the Ritz Theatre Thanksgiving morning for a brisk three-mile tour of the Ritzville Path. This year those participating are encouraged to make the jaunt at any hour prior to the time that one sits down to enjoy the Thanksgiving meal. All participants are asked to wear a face mask and to be mindful of social distancing precautions to assure everyone’s health safety.

Always an enthusiastic event among its participants, and in the spirit of such continuation, a clipboard will be placed in front of the Ritz Theatre so that all participants may sign in. Organizers of the event are eager to know who made the event.

Because of its self-guided nature this year prizes will not be awarded.

The Trot was started 33 years ago by Callie Moore, Vicki Benzel and Harriet Lynch, the Wellness Committee of the Ritzville School District who wanted to encourage wellness among the community. The event has continued in all weather. Now more than ever, its goal of wellness seems appropriate.

The three-mile Ritzville Path circles from the Ritz Theatre, to the Wheat Land Communities’ Fairgrounds, along the Heinemann Forest, and back onto Division Street along the little league field, returning to its beginning.