Families take part in annual Rhode Island Turkey Trot 5K

PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Family Turkey Trot 5K and Youth Fun Run stepped off in Pawtucket on Thursday morning.

Many runners gathered for the tradition of a full on burn before their big meal. This was the biggest turnout Pawtucket has seen for a road race.

“We have had a great number of entries this year. The largest race ever. I have been doing races for 15-20 years and by far this is the largest race in the city of Pawtucket,” said Charles Breagy, race director.

Mild temperatures encouraged runners to come out and enjoy the day.

“It is a beautiful day out after it rained on us yesterday so it was the perfect opportunity to get out and enjoy the nice weather and to get ready for our big dinner later on in the evening,” said Richa Magan, Sharon, Massachusetts.

The race took place in the heart of Pawtucket with a start and finish at City Hall on Roosevelt Avenue.

The event offered a beautiful flat course through historical Pawtucket and Central Falls.

This year, the race supported the Pawtucket Soup Kitchen on Walcott Street through non-perishable good and monetary donations.

“People have helped me in the past when I was down and out, so it is my way of giving back,” said Rob Chura of Cleveland, Ohio.