FEASTER FIVE TURKEY TROT RETURNING TO DOWNTOWN ANDOVER

PATCH.COM

The annual race went virtual in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Did you miss the Feaster Five Road Race last year, when it was held virtually due to the coronavirus? This year it returns to downtown Andover for an in-person race.

Registration for the 34th annual race opened Thursday for the Nov. 15 run in downtown Andover.

There will be a "three-day race expo" beginning Nov. 22 at the Merrimack Valley YMCA.

"As we enter our 34th year, it is really gratifying to see the enthusiasm the community has shown for the return of our traditional Feaster Five Thanksgiving Day Race," said Race Organizing Committee Chair Tom Licciardello, chair of the race organizing committee. "The chance to once again gather with friends and family will be especially emotional for all of us this year. Our race director, Dave McGillivray, and our entire Organizing Committee are excited to see all of our past participants and new, young and old, back again to celebrate a day of family, fitness, and fun."

In 2020, with the in-person race canceled, runners participated in dozens of states and multiple countries. But most years, up to 10,000 people run on Route 28 each Thanksgiving.

The race raises money for the Merrimack Valley Striders' high school scholarship program, the Merrimack Valley YMCA, Bellesini Academy of Lawrence and Groundwork Lawrence.

There are multiple events: a 5K, a 5-mile route and a kids' K fun run. Adult race finishers receive a Table Talk Apple Pie.

DMSE Sports, led by McGillivray, manages the race. McGillivray is also the race director for the Boston Marathon.

"I've been saying all during this pandemic that the comeback is always stronger than the setback and such will be the case with the annual Feaster Five Road Race," McGillivray said. "It is such a thrill to once again be planning for this traditional Thanksgiving gathering of family and friends and I know all the participants will be equally as thrilled to once again be running side-by-side one another showing the community that we are back and we are stronger than ever."

The first 300 people to register for the adult event will receive a $20 Whirlaway gift card from the Gold Sponsor Whirlaway Sports Center. Early registration also guarantees a spot in the race and a "high-quality technical T-shirt."

More details and registration are available at www.feasterfive.com.