OK, you've got a big meal ahead and you don't want to feel guilty about stuffing yourself. Detroit's 20^th annual Turkey Trot 10km Run is your ticket to a guilt free gorging and a fun place to be while someone else is doing the cooking. 

Last year I watched thousands line up for the trot around downtown then stroll over to the parade.  Many runners seemed to be with a buddy or two. It was a pretty day but I can remember other years when a little preparation was required.  For some that missed dressing up for the Halloween runs it was another chance to put on a costume.  Several years ago (like more than a decade) I stood at the starting line with my fellow Redford Roadrunners with head feathers and war paint. A competitor asked if I was taking the race seriously and I said "absolutely", with a devious smile.  With the eyes of Mercury on me I pulled off a victory then froze my little butt off on the winner's float. The TV announcers claimed my war paint was running down my face, with emphasis on the pun. 

The Trot is really a fun run.  A few are competitive and medals are awarded to the first 150 male and female finishers but times aren't recorded.  It's best to layer your clothes and take them off as needed.  Hats and gloves are also recommended.  A thermos of hot chocolate or coffee should be on your morning check list too, especially if you plan to stand around and watch Detroit's fabulous parade.

Like last year, the race begins at Wayne State University.  It winds around the campus then into downtown Detroit.  Just as you are starting to get tired, the race jumps onto the parade route where spectators are starting to gather. The cheering provides a big boost of energy before you head back to the WSU campus. 

The Motor City Striders have been conducting the race since 1986. This year registration will be set up in a big tent outside the Matthaei  Phys Ed Building which is located at Warren and the Lodge Freeway.  There is a parking structure next to it and also plenty of parking just east of the Lodge. Over 4,000 are already registered and another 1,300 to 2,000 usually sign up on race day.  The race starts at 8 am and is just a quarter mile away from the parade route on Woodward.  The Parade starts at 10:00am.  The Matthaei Building also has locker rooms available for changing your clothes.  I highly recommend bringing a dry set to change into after the race whether you plan to stay for the parade or not. The entry fee is $25.  Race day registration begins at 6:30am and it's a good idea to get there early, especially if you have not pre registered.

For more information you can call the Motor City Striders at 248 544-9099 or check out their web site at http://motorcitystriders.com