Get Ready to Run: Port Washington Thanksgiving Day Run is Nov. 22

If you plan to run, jog or walk in this year's Community Chest Thanksgiving Day 5 Mile Run, sign up early. This year's race, taking place Nov. 22, will be capped at 3,000 entrees, and based on in recent years, officials anticipate at least 2,900 signing up.

Also known as the "Turkey Trot," the race is the biggest annual fundraiser for the Community Chest of Port Washington, a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization that raises funds for distribution to local charities dedicated to improving people’s lives. 

All proceeds from race fees, sponsorships and contributions are fully tax deductible.  Officially sanctioned by the USATF (USA Track and Field), the run is co-presented by the Town of North Hempstead and assisted by the Port Washington Police and Fire Medics, the Sands Point Police and the Nassau County Police, along with the Villages of Manorhaven, Sands Point, Baxter Estates and Port Washington North. 

“We encourage everyone to come out and participate in this wonderful community event, that raises money for programs that help one in three Port Washington residents,” said Julie Meer Harnick, Community Chest Executive Director.

Registrants will receive a long-sleeved commemorative T-shirt. Participants can register by downloading the application form at the Community Chest website and returning it by mail, or by visiting Active, a website that lists activities and information about fitness, and completing the process online.  The price of advance registrations (prior to race day) is $35 for adults and $25 for youngsters 18 years old and under.  “Run Day” registration fee for adults is $50, and the youth rate is $25.  (Registrants using the online service Active.com  pay an additional convenience charge.)

The Community Chest of Port Washington invites Long Island corporations, local businesses and area professionals to sponsor the event, in amounts ranging from $250 (for mile marker signage) to $5,000 (for a comprehensive recognition program plus complimentary registration for 10 participants).  For more information on sponsorships, contact Julie Meer Harnick at the Community Chest at (516) 767-2121 or jmharnick@portchest.org.  2012 Sponsors to date include: The Slade Family Foundation, Arizona Beverages, Harding Real Estate, MassageEnvy, Parisi Speed School,  K.C. AutoMarineGroup,  Port Washington Federal Credit Union, Yoga Life, Gold Coast Chiropractic and Schmergel Enterprises.

Run organizers are mindful of the inconvenience the event causes to some residents and businesses along the route and will once again close roads for as short a time as possible.  Ample notification and complete details will be provided closer to the event.  Meanwhile, residents or business owners with specific concerns about traffic routing on the morning of Nov. 22 are welcome to contact Ms. Meer Harnick.