From the Organizer
Run information:
Gulf Coast State College Athletics is thrilled to host the 4th Annual Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk — and you’re invited to join the fun! Lace up your running shoes, grab your friends and family, and start your Thanksgiving morning the Gulf Coast way.
The course begins at Frazier Field on the Gulf Coast St. campus and takes you on a scenic out-and-back route that climbs up onto the Hathaway Bridge — offering beautiful morning views and the perfect way to earn that extra slice of pumpkin pie later!
Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a casual jogger, or just looking to enjoy some fresh Thanksgiving morning air, this event is for everyone! There’s also a 1-Mile Fun Run for those who prefer a shorter distance but still want to join in on all the excitement.
Expect a morning full of energy, smiles, and maybe even a few turkey costumes! Awards will be given three deep in five-year age groups, and every participant will receive a colorful commemorative T-shirt and all the festive fun they can handle.
Don’t wait—register early to snag the best deal and guarantee your race shirt! The first 300 participants to register online are guaranteed a shirt, so sign up before they’re gone.
All proceeds benefit Gulf Coast State College Athletics, helping support scholarships, recruiting, facilities, meals, housing, and more — directly impacting the student-athlete experience.
Race schedule:
8am: 5k Run (all ages)
9am: Fun Run (all ages)
Registration Fees:
Early Registration (before Nov. 16): $25
After Nov. 16: $30
Age 16 and under: $20
Packet Pickup:
Pick up your race packet on Wednesday, November 25, from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. in the Wellness Building lobby. If you can’t make it, no worries — you can also grab your packet at check-in on race day.
So come run, jog, walk, or waddle your way across the finish line, and let’s kick off Thanksgiving with a little fitness, a lot of fun, and a big Gulf Coast smile!
*Rain or Shine: For inclement weather on race day, we will delay the start time in 15-minute increments.
*No Refunds: If the race is canceled, your registration fee will be donated to GC Athletics.
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Events
Weather
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
70°
Typical Low
50°
Based on US Climate Normals data from Panama City Bay Co Ap, 2 mi from the venue.
Host City
Population
34,211
as of 2023
Elevation
35 ft
Nearest Airport
ECP
Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport · 14 mi
Major Hub
PNS
Pensacola International Airport · 93 mi
Time Zone
Central Time
From Endurance Grid
A mid-size host city. Enough lodging and amenities to keep race weekend easy, without big-city sprawl.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at 4th Annual Gulf Coast State College Athletics 5k Turkey Trot, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
171
Days to train
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From Endurance Grid
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.
With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.
Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.
From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
4th Annual Gulf Coast State College Athletics 5k Turkey Trot
Nov 26, 2026