Courtesy: event press release

What's the best way to prepare for a Thanksgiving feast? Cooking, well sure, but why not run or walk in the 22nd Annual Sugar Land Surgical Hospital Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning, Nov. 22?

Why?

"Everyone loves this fun run and walk because afterwards, you feel a lot less guilt for perhaps overindulging at the Thanksgiving dinner table later in the day," explains Turkey Trot race director Andy Stewart, who also owns Sugar Land Finish Line Sports in the Gerlands shopping center.

What about those who want to sleep in on Thanksgiving morning?

"Over the years, most participants tell me pretty much the same game plan -- they like to do the run, pig out, watch football or visit with family, then take a nap later in the day anyway. Not a bad way to spend Thanksgiving.

"We get several hundred people participating, either in the five mile, the kid's mile or the 2.8 mile family walk. In fact, many participants make this their start-to-the-holidays tradition."

And for those who work up an appetite that needs satisfying immediately after the race, Stewart says his Aunt Jean's catering of popular items will do the job.

"She may not have turkey and dressing available, but runners never go away disappointed with Aunt Jean's post-race food spread," said Stewart.

The Sean Scroggins Kids Mile (for ages 12 and under) begins at 8 a.m., followed by the chip-timed 5 mile race at 8:30 a.m. The popular (and fast) five mile route takes runners through the heart of Sugar Creek. The family 2.8 mile walk takes place at 9 a.m.

Title Sponsor again this year is Sugar Land Surgical Hospital on Highway 6. Donations from race proceeds benefit Cenikor, MD Anderson Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Fund, East Ft Bend Human Needs Ministry, and others. Please bring canned goods for donation, as well. The race also features a lone bag piper at the end of the course to motivate all participants - a unique musical fixture at all of Stewart's races.

Runners and walkers can register at Finish Line Sports, 13895 SW Freeway at Sugar Creek Blvd in Sugar Land, or online at www.signmeup.com. Questions? Call (281) 242-7700. Participants may also register on race morning.