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Record-Breaking 2,400 Runners Participate in Annual Tamarac Turkey Trot

by David Volz November 23, 2023

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43rd Annual Tamarac Turkey Trot {Photos by David Volz}

By David Volz

Over 2,400 runners of all ages and abilities assembled early on Thanksgiving morning to participate in the 43rd Annual Tamarac Turkey Trot 5K run.

This year’s Turkey Trot started north of Tamarac City Hall and ended in front of it. Melissa Petron, assistant director of Tamarac Parks and Recreation, said there were many new runners this year.

There was also a festive atmosphere with music and refreshments. Some runners are highly competitive and train extensively. Others walk the course and talk with friends.

Sonja Friend-Uhl, who won the women’s division, ran with her daughter Brianna Uhl, who earned third place in women’s 20-24.

“I love running and have been doing it since I was a little girl. This was a good race, and I enjoyed running it,” said Sonja, who, at 52, competes in high-level senior competitions and the 1,500-meter run at the Olympic Trials.

Brianna also enjoyed the Turkey Trot. “I love running, and this is a fun event. I like being with the people here,” she said.

Tom Renzo came in second for the men’s 65 and over age group. He teaches calculus at Coral Springs High School and runs with his son Jake. “I love running, and I did well in this run. I like being a part of it,” he said.

Jake agreed and said, “This Turkey Trot was great fun. I like to run with friends.”

Ralph Guijarro, who runs around 40 miles per week, was second in the men’s 60 to 64 division. “I felt good during the run today,” he said.

Bryan Boggiano, who writes for Talk Media, won the men’s 25 to 29 division. He was pleased with his performance and enjoyed the run.

Tamarac Mayor Michelle J. Gomez also participated and said, “We had the most runners ever. I was glad to see so many people getting together to have fun.”

Plantation Mayor Nick Sortal said, “This was a good event. Turkey Trots are among the most popular running events in the nation.”

After the run, families and groups of friends socialized together, enjoyed food and music, and discussed their plans for Thanksgiving.

There was an awards presentation for men and women who finished first, second, or third in their age division and the men and women who finished first, second, and third overall.

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Author Profile

David Volz

David Volz has worked as a writer in South Florida for 35 years. He has written for the Sun-Sentinel, Hollywood Gazette, School Transportation News, South Dade News Leaders, Observer among others. He has an MA in Communications from Florida Atlantic University and a BA in Communications from Valparaiso University. Volz teaches Communications at Miami Dade College and Palm Beach State College. He lives in Coral Springs and enjoys running and participating in 5Ks and half-marathons.