Fall is here and the summer race season is coming to a close. Some runners may be finishing the final stages of their fall marathon build. Others may be taking a short break from a busy summer of racing. For any runner looking for the perfect fall race, consider preparing for one of the most enjoyable race days of the year – Thanksgiving.

A San Diego Turkey Trot is a great way for the whole family to start off the Thanksgiving day celebration with three classic races to pick from in different areas of the county. Whether you are in downtown or Oceanside or in between, these San Diego Turkey Trots will have you burning a few extra calories and supporting a good cause before the feasting begins.

The Pure Fitness Run For The Hungry 10K and 5K takes runners on a tour of downtown San Diego starting and finishing at Petco Park. The Kathy Loper event raises money to support The San Diego Food Bank and Foodmobile. Registration fees range from $17 – $38 and includes a colorful t-shirt. Awards will be presented to the top three finishers in each age group division. Participants are encouraged to donate canned goods for The San Diego Food Bank and Foodmobile.

The Father Joe’s Thanksgiving Day 5K Run/Walk is by far the largest Turkey Trot in San Diego with more than 12,000 participants. The fast course starts and ends in beautiful Balboa Park and rewards runners and walkers with a long sleeve shirt, awards for the top three in each division, and a continental breakfast. Registration fees range from $15 – $35. Donate or raise more than $100 and take home a Father Joe Carroll bobblehead.

For North County residents, the Oceanside Turkey Trot presented by Pacific Marine Credit Union is either a 5 mile or 5K run/walk that starts at the Oceanside Civic Center and ends at the Oceanside Pier. All finishers will receive a medal and the top three in each division will earn Dick’s Sporting Goods gift certificates. Registration fees range from $20 – $40 and proceeds benefit local Oceanside schools. Visit the O’side Turkey Trot website for information on training plans.