Mount Vernon High School hosted their third annual Turkey Trot 5K bright and early on Saturday to raise money for the MVHS Cares emergency fund. Runners either sponsored themselves or found sponsors within the community’s generous businesses or from MVHS teachers and administration.
“This is an important community event and that’s what this is all about,” event organizer Jay Ruelas said. “It’s about the runners coming together to support our community.”
Participates picked up a race day packet on Friday evening or early Saturday morning before the race that included sponsor information, a Turkey Trot t-shirt and a map of the route. More than 200 racers showed up to win a frozen turkey, but Ruelas said more had registered but were sick or didn’t want to face the cold morning weather.
“This is such a great event. We’re having fun for a great cause and everyone is on board with it,” event organizer Irvin Kalugdan said. “We’re trying to create a long standing community event and get everyone active. I went door to door to remind people about the event and got to talk to a lot of people.”
The first male to cross the finish line was Mark Walchinsky with a time of 17:48 and the first female across the finish line was 15-year-old Elley Donnelly with a time of 23:06. Prizes were awarded to the best male and female overall, as well as the top two males and females for under 12, 13 to 18, 19 to 35 and 36 and over.
“This this turn out is great and we have a great crowd to support Mount Vernon Cares,” Charlie Sabatier said. “Seeing everyone come together for this cause is a great sentiment of community spirit.
Proceeds from the race will fund the MVHS Cares Emergency Fund which helps provide education-related assistance and incentives for MVHS students. The Student Government Association will also receive money from the fundraiser for assisting in international education outreach efforts. Additional donations can be sent to Mount Vernon High School Attn: Turkey Trot 8515 Old Mount Vernon Road Alexandria, VA 22309.
