Annual Turkey Trot Memorial Race Returns To Long Valley

LONG VALLEY, NJ — November has arrived, bringing with it the start of Thanksgiving planning in Long Valley—and it's also time to register for the WMC Memorial 5K Turkey Trot, an annual tradition for the community.

The WMC Memorial 5K Turkey Trot carries on the cherished tradition of the WMC Memorial Race, which was originally established to honor the memories of Kyleigh D'Alessio and Tanner Birch. In subsequent years, the race has also paid tribute to Stephen Berstler and Paul Heembrock.

All four individuals were students at West Morris Central High School.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the memorial scholarships established in their names, as well as support local initiatives such as Project Graduation, Community Night Out and new recreational projects designed to enhance the township.

Co-sponsored by West Morris Central High School and the Washington Township Recreation Committee, the race will take place on Nov. 28 at 8 a.m., rain or shine. Check-in will begin at 7 a.m., and a $30 registration fee is required for all participants.

This year's course will start behind one of the soccer fields and finish on the track surrounding the football field. 5K runners will complete the full distance by looping around the course twice.

Since its inception in 2007, the race has become a holiday tradition for many in the Long Valley community, according to local officials.

The Washington Township Turkey Trot Committee has previously noted that participants from Long Valley, Chester, Mendham, Randolph, Hackettstown, Califon, High Bridge, and other nearby towns consider this event a convenient alternative to traveling to larger, out-of-town Turkey Trot races.

Competitive runners will have the opportunity to win medals, with awards given to the top three men and women aged 12 and up, as well as the top three boys and girls under 12.

For more information and to register, click here.