Register by September 15 and receive a $5 discount on Fun Run Racing’s Prince William Turkey Trot and One-Mile Fun Run-Walk on Thanksgiving Day.
Rob Dulin and Ian Connor of The Running Store in Gainesville have teamed up to bring a series of fun, holiday themed races to western Prince William County and Manassas. Their first Fun Run Race, the Freedom Firecracker 5K on July 4th, raised over $5,700 for local charities and nonprofits.
The folks behind Fun Run Racing are now preparing for their next upcoming race, the Prince William Turkey Trot and One-Mile Fun Run-Walk, scheduled for 8:30 a.m. November 27 at the Freedom and Aquatic Center in Manassas.
Connor said the idea behind Fun Run Racing is to engage the community with celebratory races close to home. He believes the proximity offers a variety of benefits for runners. It allows the whole family to take part in the event. It provides ample parking. And, perhaps most importantly, it means the runner does not have to wake up before sunrise to commute into D.C. or surrounding cities to enjoy a fun, competitive race.
Because Fun Run Racing prides itself on hosting fun family-friendly events, runners and families can expect local vendors, entertainment and a fun atmosphere for all. Connor and Dulin even encourage runners to dress in festive attire for the occasion, although it is not a requirement.
And, while any day is a great day to run, Connor believes holidays are ideal for holding races. He notes most people are off from work and are looking to celebrate in ways other than just sitting at home.
In terms of Thanksgiving, Connor believes the holiday is the perfect day for a 5K. Everyone goes into Thanksgiving dinner expecting to overindulge on turkey, stuffing, gravy and pumpkin pie. However, before sitting down to the late afternoon feast, the Turkey Trot offers residents the opportunity to burn off some calories while celebrating the American holiday in an active, festive way that also engages them with their friends and neighbors.
Fun Run Racing also gives back to the community. Fun Run Racing has partnered with the Manassas Bull Run Rotary Club. This local Rotary Club works with a variety of charities and nonprofits such as the Capital Area Red Cross, Barn Transitional Housing, Matthews Center and Prosperity House. Additionally, they provide scholarship programs for graduations of local high schools in both academic in vocational fields on an annual basis.
Through their partnership with the Bull Run Manassas Rotary Club, Fun Run Racing is helping to sponsor their many worthwhile causes and charities. Additionally, Connor and Dulin like that the money stays local to help residents in Prince William and Manassas and Northern Virginia.
Because the weather in late November tends to be unpredictable, runners, along with their families and friends, will have access to the Freedom Aquatic Center lobby where they can stop in and warm up. Hot and cold beverages will be available on site as well as recovery snacks for runners.
Connor and Dulin were so pleased with the turnout and festive atmosphere at the Firecracker Run, and they expect this event to be even bigger.
They emphasize that this is an inclusive race for runners of all levels and ages. And to encourage all participants, they will have a variety of prizes such as costume cash in addition to awards for the fastest runners.
Children can choose to run in the 5K Turkey Trot or run in the One-Mile Run-Walk. However, strollers are not permitted in either race for the safety of the runners. However, cute babies and dogs are encouraged to accompany the cheering parents, especially if dressed in seasonal attire.
Runners can register early at www.FunRunRacing.com. The Early Birds cost for the 5K is $30 on or before September 15, Regular price is $35 between September 16 and November 9, and the Procrastinator price is $40 between November 10 and 21. Race administrators advise to register early as the races may reach capacity before race day.
The prices for the One-Mile Run-Walk are listed on the registration page and also vary by registration date.
Fun Run Racing is looking for business partners who are seeking to market and advertise their local business via sponsorship. They are also looking for local vendor who could provide food, and health-conscious services or productions and would like to have a presence at their races.
Remember to register early to trot before you eat and sleep this Thanksgiving!
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