Jessica Sword, left, and Chris Sword close in on the finish line during the Turkey Trot in Steamboat Springs. (Photo by Joel Reichenberger)

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS — The annual Turkey Trot will be held Thanksgiving Day morning to benefit the Steamboat Springs High School cross country and track teams.

Entering its third year under race director Lisa Renee Tumminello, the 5K race, which is a loop beginning at the newly-renovated Gardner Field to Strawberry Park and back, is open to all levels and allows runners to compete for prizes.

“It used to be a 10k, but people have to think twice about a 10k if they’re not runners,” Tumminello said. “For a 5K, a lot of people come out and walk it with their dog and that’s doable.”

Last year’s Turkey Trot attracted a record number of 400 participants, including 200 who signed up on the day of the race. Tumminello said that could be attributed to a lack of snow at Steamboat Resort but it also might have been a sign that the community enjoys coming together for a greater cause.

“Our intent is to provide this family experience and something that’s really affordable for people to come out to,” Tumminello said. “It’s representative of what a strong community Steamboat is. I get the same feeling at the Turkey Trot as when I walk through the Winter Carnival or Halloween event.”

The pre-registration entry fees for the Turkey Trot are minimal — $10 for children age 6 to 10, $15 for youth 11 to 18 and $20 for participants 18 and older. Children 5 and younger run for free.

All prices increase by $5 for registration the day of the race. Runners are encouraged to also bring nonperishable, canned goods for LiftUp Food Bank.

Funds raised by the race have been used to pay for the high school’s cross country and track team uniforms, scholarships, equipment and travel costs for athletes to participate in indoor track meets during the winter. Sailors athletes will be aiding in the race’s setup.

Tumminello strongly encourages people to pre-register for the event to avoid long lines. Online registration will conclude at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 20. The first 250 youth and adults who register online will receive an embroidered Steamboat Springs winter sport headband.

Participants can also register at Twisted Trails on Lincoln Avenue from 3 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 21. Registration on race day will be available from 8:15 to 9 a.m. at Gardner Field.

Prizes will be awarded to the top five adult and youth male and female runners, while all youth age 10 and younger will receive race ribbons with special treats attached. There will also be a best overall costume award.

Some of the prizes include: pumpkin pie, Steamboat Pilates apparel and sessions, Forever Fit laser sessions, running swag and more. Tumminello said door prizes and coupons will also be handed out.

The race starts at 9:30 a.m., and runners are encouraged to dress warmly and in costume to join the fun.

“Sometimes, it starts out a little bit snowy or icy in the morning,” Tumminello said. “So it’s good footing by the time the race starts.”

To reach Leah Vann, call 970-871-4253, email lvann@SteamboatPilot.com or follow her on Twitter @LVann_Sports.