SALINAS — Families began arriving before sunrise on Thanksgiving Day eager to venture onto Monterey County’s iconic WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in Salinas for exercise, family photos and to raise valuable funds for the Food Bank for Monterey County.
In four hours, a record total $10,185 in cash donations was received, along with two overflowing donation barrels with non-perishable food items. This surpassed the previous cash donation record of $6,100.
According to Melissa Kendrick, CEO and executive director of the Food Bank for Monterey County, every dollar donated has the power to distribute $5 worth of food for families in need. The nonprofit organization feeds 1 in 3 children and 1 in 4 residents in Monterey County and is the largest and most comprehensive provider of emergency supplemental food in the community.
This year’s Turkey Trot, a tradition that began in 2011, returned after a three-year hiatus caused by the pandemic and track construction. WeatherTech Raceway staff volunteered their time to host the Nov. 23 event to ensure that 100% of the donations went to the Food Bank.
“The Food Bank for Monterey County provides a vital service year-round for our community,” said John Narigi, president and general manager of WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. “It is a privilege for members of our team to volunteer their time to welcome the community to the Laguna Seca Recreation Area and participate in healthy recreation to raise much-needed funds that support such a wonderful, hard-working community organization.”
Turkey Trot participants could run, jog or walk at their own pace on the 2.238-mile race circuit where legendary drivers and riders have raced. The highlight of each lap was standing atop the legendary Corkscrew for scenic views of Monterey Bay and the Salinas Valley before plunging down the signature turn’s six stories.
“We were thrilled to have so many families from our community visit and enjoy their morning together,” said Barry Toepke, director of heritage events and public relations. “In addition to our neighbors, we enjoyed welcoming visitors from Texas, Wisconsin, Michigan, Washington, Japan and Holland who mentioned they were visiting our beautiful destination. Plus, I’ve never seen so many happy, tired dogs after their laps around the track.”
The Turkey Trot is part of WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca’s community outreach program that includes such favorites as Cars & Coffee for charity and Twilight Cycling.
For 2024 season ticket information and the Official Raceway Store, visit WeatherTechRaceway.com or call the Tickets and Accommodations Specialists at 831-242-8200.
