Wings run Turkey Trot

914th Airlift Wing Commander Col. Allan Swartzmiller (center) runs in the 116th annual YMCA Turkey Trot held Thanksgiving morning November 24, 2011 Buffalo NY. Established in 1896, this 8K race marked its 116th start on Thanksgiving morning, making it the oldest continually running footrace in North America. . (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Joseph McKee)

Wings run Turkey Trot

Capt. Gina Pizziconi-Cupples, 914th Logistics Readiness Squadron commander sings the National Anthem during the opening of the 116th annual YMCA Turkey Trot held Thanksgiving morning November 24, 2011 Buffalo NY. Established in 1896, this 8K race marked its 116th start on Thanksgiving morning, making it the oldest continually running footrace in North America. . (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Joseph McKee)

Niagara Airmen participate in nation's oldest Turkey Trot

Published Nov. 24, 2011
By Staff Sgt. Joseph McKee
914th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, NY. -- Members of the 914th and 107th Airlift Wings ran with 12,500 of their closest friends from throughout the world during the 116th annual YMCA Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning in downtown Buffalo, N.Y.

Established in 1896, this 8K race marked its 116th start on Thanksgiving morning, making it the oldest continually running footrace in North America.

The race was immediately followed by a post-race celebration and awards ceremony that played host to more than 14,000 runners, spectators and volunteers.

Participants in the Turkey Trot have been known to wear unusual costumes during the race and this year was no exception with sightings of Pilgrims, Turkeys, Gingerbread men and several Wookies.