FAQs & General Info

We have made a number of changes to Trot 2020 to keep our participants, volunteers, and staff comfortable and safe while participating in the annual tradition that has been enjoyed for generations. We are following guidelines and best practices provided by the CDC, State of Texas, Dallas County, and the City of Dallas for outdoor run/walk events. As guidance is updated or changed, we will communicate changes to race protocols.

• The overall capacity of the in-person Turkey Trot will be limited to 10,000 registered participants
• There will not be registration on race day. Registration will occur online only through 12:00 noon on Wednesday, November 25 or until the capacity has been reached, whichever comes first. Bibs may be picked up race day morning by anyone that pre-registered for the in-person event. T-shirts and other swag may not be available on race day, so we strongly encourage packets to be picked up in advance. Dates, times, and locations of packet pickup are to be determined.
• In 2020, there are three start times for participants to self-select during registration for the Timed or Untimed registration. 5K participants can choose to start their run/walk at 8:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m. or at 10:00 a.m. and 8-mile participants can choose to start at 8:00 a.m. or 9:00 a.m.
• There will be at least 2 additional staging areas for Timed and Untimed runners, walkers, strollers, and dogs that are available on a first come-first served basis to a combined maximum human capacity of 3000 participants for each start time.
• The corrals and staging areas will be marked for participants to physically distance at least 6' from participants not in the same household. Each 6’ marker should have no more than 1 adult and 2 kids or 2 adults from the same household. Groups/families with more people will be encouraged to spread their group to nearby 6’ distancing marks.
• Participants over the age of 2 years old will be required to wear face coverings or masks while in the staging areas/corrals, and can remove them once they have passed the start line and are able to physically distance themselves from other runners and walkers, approximately 1/2 mile or more onto the course.
• Water stops will still be available on the course with bottled water only. Participants will receive guidance closer to the event regarding the proper disposal of the container when it is empty. 
• Individually packaged snacks will replace whole fruit at the finish lines. Participants are encouraged to bring their own preferred post-race refueling snack, fruit, or beverage.
• A virtual option is available for participants who may be unable to attend in person. This virtual option includes the Trot t-shirt and other participant swag that is to be determined.
• Hand-washing units will be added at every portable toilet bank at City Hall Plaza. Hand sanitizer will also be available at key areas around City Hall Plaza and at the portable toilets along the course routes.
• All volunteers, staff and sponsor representatives will be required to wear a face covering or mask.
• Participants over the age of 2 years old will be required to wear face coverings or masks when 6’ of physical distancing is difficult to maintain.  For race day this means when moving to/from areas, while in the staging areas/corrals, using common areas, etc.  Once a runner has passed the start line and they are able to physically distance themselves from other runners and walkers (approximately 1/2 mile or more onto the course), they may remove their mask if necessary.
• Volunteers, staff, sponsor representatives, and participants will physically distance themselves from others not in the same household.
• Participants will be asked to self-screen for health and close contact prior to the event day.
• Staff and volunteers will be temperature checked and health screened prior to beginning their work on race day.
• Other changes may be made with or without notice if required by new state or local guidelines or if deemed to be a positive change to promote the health and safety of our participants. Any additional changes will be communicated to participants when they occur.

If you do not find an answer to your question in the FAQs, please feel free to email us at turkeytrot@ymcadallas.org

For registration questions or issues please reach out to Active Consumer Support
Call: 877-228-4881 ext. 4 or Email: support@activenetwork.com
They will be able to resolve technical issues and answer questions related to online registration.

Q: How do I register for the Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot?
A: Online registration will be available until 12:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 25th.  There will be no race day registration in 2020.

Q: How much does registration cost?
A: 

Tots, Toddlers, and Strollers (under 6 years old) are only $15 and receive a shirt and bib to race with the family. Please note that strollers are not allowed in the Timed Runner Corral.

Q: Can I get a refund?
A: Due to the nature of the event and advanced ordering of supplies, no refunds will be granted for any reason. You may transfer from in-person to virtual any time before November 15, but no credit will be applied. Your registration fees go toward supporting the YMCA community and COVID-19 programs in metropolitan Dallas. If the event is not allowed to be held in person, all registrations will be transferred to the virtual event, packets will be mailed to registered participants, and a portion of your registration fee becomes a donation to the YMCA.

Q: Can I change categories? i.e. Untimed to Timed or to the virtual event
A: Yes, you can. CLICK HERE to manage your registration category. When you change categories, you will only be charged the price difference, if applicable. Keep in mind that if you are changing to a category that costs less than the one you originally signed up for, no credit will be applied or refunded.

Q: Where do I pick up my packet?
A: Packet Pickup locations, dates, and times are to be determined

Q: Can someone else pick up my packet?
A: Yes. The person picking up the packet(s) will need the participant’s name.

Q: Is there a processing fee to register?
A: Yes, a nominal processing fee will be charged for each registration.

Q: Can I write one check for all registrations?
A: We strongly encourage you to register online using a credit card or debit card. If you do register at a packet pick up location, one check can be written for all of the registrations. You will not be able to register "in-person" at any location until packet pick up begins.

Q: Why is there a virtual option?
A: We understand that some of our long-time participants may not yet feel comfortable attending an event this year, so we have added a Virtual Trot option to the 2020 Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot registration. For anyone that is unable to attend in person, the registration for the Virtual Trot will make it possible to continue your tradition from a distance; including the addition of a 2020 Trot shirt to your collection.

Q: Who should register for the Virtual Trot?
A: The Virtual Trot is recommended for anyone that cannot or should not attend the in-person event, including, but not limited to:

• Individuals of any age that have underlying health issues, physical, or medical limitations that prevent them from following new event protocols, such as wearing a face covering or mask
• Individuals of any age that are at higher risk for severe respiratory illness
• Individuals aged 65 or older, with or without underlying health issues READ: State of Texas Guidance for Texans over 65
• Individuals who do not live in or will not travel to Dallas but want to be a part of what is, historically, the largest Turkey Trot in the world

Q: What is the "Virtual Trot"?
A: The "virtual" part means that you will not be in downtown Dallas to run/walk your Trot. You can run or walk a 5K or 8-mile distance on any day, any time, and in any city and enter your results online to be a part of the virtual leader board. Your virtual packet will include the same 100% cotton, long-sleeved Trot shirt as the in-person participants, along with additional swag that is to be determined.

Q: I already registered for virtual, but can I transfer to in-person?
A: You can. Simply CLICK HERE to manage your race category. Please keep in mind that you will be charged the price difference between what you paid for your original registration and the current price of your new category, however there are no additional fees associated with changing category.

Q: I registered for the in-person event, but I won't be able to go now.
A: To ensure your shirt and participant swag are mailed to you, we highly recommend that you transfer to the virtual category instead of being a "no show" for the in-person event. CLICK HERE to transfer your registration to the virtual option. If your original registration price was lower than the current virtual option price, you will only pay the price difference. If the virtual option price is lower than your original registration price, no credit or refund will be given.

Q: Is there assistance available if I can’t do the whole course?
A: Yes, we have paramedics, radio operators and police officers patrolling the course. If you need assistance, just ask a volunteer or an officer for help. We also have water stops and restrooms located on the course.

Q: Do you need to be timed to receive an award?
A: Yes, only runners with a timed bib are eligible to receive age group and overall prizes/awards.

Q: Do you offer Finisher Medals?
A: We offer a limited number of finisher medals. Details coming soon!    

Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: Yes, well-socialized, non-aggressive dogs are welcome at the Trot.  Dogs may come as spectators with their owners or they may participate in the Trot by adding a Dog Registration to receive a Turkey Trot dog bandanna.  Dogs will not be permitted in the Timed Runner Corral.  Dog owners are solely responsible for their pets’ actions and must agree to follow the Dog/Stroller Policy* for the safety of all participants. *Please see Dog/Stroller Policy below.

*Dog/Stroller Policy:

Participants with dogs and/or strollers are not permitted in the Timed Runner Corral.
Participants with dogs and/or strollers should line up at the back of the run/walk pack.  Let the runners get up ahead so all may enjoy the course safely.
We recommend participants with dogs and/or strollers walk the course, however if you choose to run the course with your dog/stroller, please use extreme caution for the safety of your child,your dog and others running around you. We want all pups, kids and participants to complete the course safely.
Only dogs who are well-socialized with other dogs and people should be brought to the Trot.  For the safety of all, please use your good judgment knowing your dog’s personality and behaviors.
Dog owner/handlers must be 18 years of age or older.
Dog owners/handlers may only be responsible for one dog at a time during the Trot.
All dogs must be on an appropriate leash at all times.  Fixed length/static leashes not longer than 3 feet should be used to prevent a hazard to other participants.
Dog owner/handler is expected to be a responsible dog owner, provide appropriate water and pick up after their pet at all times.

Q: Can I walk the 8 miles?
A: Yes. If you plan to do the 8-mile course, you will need to select either the 8:00 a.m. or 9:00 a.m. start time. The 5K/8-Mile course split will close at 9:45 and all remaining participants/start times will complete the 5K only. Any runners who have not passed Union station by 10:45 a.m. will be asked to take a shorter route to the finish line. The 8-mile course will close at 11:00 a.m. at the mile 4 marker. The race course officially closes at 12:00 p.m. and any participants still on the course will be offered a ride back to City Hall plaza or asked to move to the sidewalk. There is no guarantee of finish line support (water, snacks) after 12:00 p.m.

Q: Is there assistance available if I can’t do the whole course?
A: Yes, we have paramedics, radio operators and police officers patrolling the course. If you need assistance, just ask a volunteer or an officer for help. We also have water stops and restrooms located on the course.

Q: Do you need to be timed to receive an award?
A: Yes, only runners with a timed bib are eligible to receive age group and overall prizes/awards.

Q: Do you offer Finisher Medals for runners who complete the 8-Mile course?
A: We offer a limited number of finisher medals. Details coming soon!    

Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: Yes, well-socialized, non-aggressive dogs are welcome at the Trot. Dogs may come as spectators with their owners or they may participate in the Trot by adding a Dog Registration to receive a Turkey Trot dog bandanna.  Dogs will not be permitted in the Timed Runner Corral.  Dog owners are solely responsible for their pets’ actions and must agree to follow the Dog/Stroller Policy* for the safety of all participants. *Please see Dog/Stroller Policy below.

*Dog/Stroller Policy:

Participants with dogs and/or strollers are not permitted in the Timed Runner Corral.
Participants with dogs and/or strollers should line up at the back of the run/walk pack.  Let the runners get up ahead so all may enjoy the course safely.
We recommend participants with dogs and/or strollers walk the course, however if you choose to run the course with your dog/stroller, please use extreme caution for the safety of your child,your dog and others running around you. We want all pups, kids and participants to complete the course safely.
Only dogs who are well-socialized with other dogs and people should be brought to the Trot.  For the safety of all, please use your good judgment knowing your dog’s personality and behaviors.
Dog owner/handlers must be 18 years of age or older.
Dog owners/handlers may only be responsible for one dog at a time during the Trot.
All dogs must be on an appropriate leash at all times.  Fixed length/static leashes not longer than 3 feet should be used to prevent a hazard to other participants.
Dog owner/handler is expected to be a responsible dog owner, provide appropriate water and pick up after their pet at all times.

Q: Is there a charge if I choose to be timed?
A: Yes. The price difference of $5 is reflected in the registration fee.

Q: Is there a corral for timed runners?
A: There will not be a specific corral for timed runners in 2020. Due to capacity limits and to keep people in the corrals safely distanced, we will not have a timed corral this year. We highly recommend that Timed runners arrive and line up early before their chosen start time. What used to be the timed corral has a limit of around 900 people. Your timed run doesn't begin until you cross the start line, and you must be timed to be eligible for overall and age group awards.

Q: I’m a timed runner, can I run with my dog or stroller?
A: Dogs/Strollers are prohibited from the timed runner corral. You can run with a pup or stroller and still qualify for age group awards but you will have to line up toward the back of the run/walk pack.

*Dog/Stroller Policy:
Participants with dogs and/or strollers are not permitted in the Timed Runner Corral.
Participants with dogs and/or strollers should line up at the back of the run/walk pack.  Let the runners get up ahead so all may enjoy the course safely.
We recommend participants with dogs and/or strollers walk the course, however if you choose to run the course with your dog/stroller, please use extreme caution for the safety of your child, your dog and others running around you. We want all pups, kids and participants to complete the course safely.
Only dogs who are well-socialized with other dogs and people should be brought to the Trot.  For the safety of all, please use your good judgment knowing your dog’s personality and behaviors.
Dog owner/handlers must be 18 years of age or older.
Dog owners/handlers may only be responsible for one dog at a time during the Trot.
All dogs must be on an appropriate leash at all times. Fixed length/static leashes not longer than 3 feet should be used to prevent a hazard to other participants.
Dog owner/handler is expected to be a responsible dog owner, provide appropriate water and pick up after their pet at all times.

Q: Is there assistance available if I can’t do the whole course?
A: Yes, we have paramedics, radio operators and police officers patrolling the course. If you need assistance, just ask a volunteer or an officer for help. We also have water stops and restrooms located on the course.

Q: Do you need to be timed to receive an award?
A: Yes, only runners with a timed bib are eligible to receive age group and overall prizes/awards.

Q: Do you offer Finisher Medals?
A: We offer a limited number of finisher medals. Details coming soon!

Q: What happens to the funds raised from the Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot?
A: 100% of proceeds from the Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot benefit the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas. This year, the YMCA provided licensed emergency child care for the children of first responders, medical professionals, and other essential workers when the schools, gyms, and other businesses were closed. The YMCAs became food distribution sites, held blood drives, and provided support for seniors and other individuals in under-resourced areas of Dallas. The Trot has always been a fundraiser for the educational and community programs provided by the YMCA. Your participation in The Trot and donations help ensure the YMCA will always be here when we are needed the most. To learn more about the community impact made by the YMCA during the COVID-19 pandemic, WATCH THIS VIDEO
EN ESPANOL

Q: I registered for the in-person event, but I won't be able to go now.
A: Simply transfer your registration to the virtual option. If your original registration price was lower than the current virtual option price, you will only pay the price difference. If the virtual option price is lower than your original registration price, no credit or refund will be given. To ensure your shirt and participant swag are mailed to you, we highly recommend that you transfer to the virtual category instead of being a "no show" for the in-person event. 

Q: Is skating or cycling allowed?
A: As they travel at a higher speed, for the safety of others, roller blades, Heelies, roller skates, scooters, skate boards, hover boards, and bicycles are not allowed in the Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot.

Q: Is there a place I can leave my jacket, bag, etc.?
A: Due to the size of the event, a gear check is NOT AVAILABLE to general event attendees.  Trot participants are encouraged to keep their gear with them at all times.

Q: Is there assistance available if I can’t do the whole course?
A: Yes, we have paramedics, radio operators and police officers patrolling the course. If you need assistance, just ask a volunteer or an officer for help. We also have water stops and restrooms located on the course.

Q: Are baby strollers allowed?
A: Absolutely, we welcome parents with children in strollers to participate in the Trot.  Don’t forget to register your child in the Tot Trot so they can have an official race shirt and number – Great family photo opportunity! Strollers will not be permitted in the Timed Runner Corral.  For the safety of your child and other participants we ask that you follow the Dog/Stroller Policy* below.

Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: Yes, well-socialized, non-aggressive dogs are welcome at the Trot.  Dogs may come as spectators with their owners or they may participate in the Trot by completing a Dog Registration and receiving a Turkey Trot dog bandanna.  Dogs will not be permitted in the Timed Runner Corral.  Dog owners are solely responsible for their pets’ actions and must agree to follow the Dog/Stroller Policy* for the safety of all participants. *Please see Dog/Stroller Policy below.

*Dog/Stroller Policy:

Participants with dogs and/or strollers are not permitted in the Timed Runner Corral.
Participants with dogs and/or strollers should line up at the back of the run/walk pack.  Let the runners get up ahead so all may enjoy the course safely.
We recommend participants with dogs and/or strollers walk the course, however if you choose to run the course with your dog/stroller, please use extreme caution for the safety of your child,your dog and others running around you. We want all pups, kids and participants to complete the course safely.
Only dogs who are well-socialized with other dogs and people should be brought to the Trot.  For the safety of all, please use your good judgment knowing your dog’s personality and behaviors.
Dog owner/handlers must be 18 years of age or older.
Dog owners/handlers may only be responsible for one dog at a time during the Trot.
All dogs must be on an appropriate leash at all times.  Fixed length/static leashes not longer than 3 feet should be used to prevent a hazard to other participants.
Dog owner/handler is expected to be a responsible dog owner, provide appropriate water and pick up after their pet at all times.

Q: Is there a host hotel?

A: Details coming soon.

Q: What time should I arrive at the Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot?
A: Participants should plan to allow plenty of time to get to the race start. We recommend arriving at City Hall Plaza at least 30 minutes before your selected start time to enter the corral or staging area when it is opened to you. Timed runners, please note that the Timed Corral for the 8:00 a.m. start time will close at 7:40 a.m. or when the capacity of 900 is reached, whichever comes first. With staggered start times and fewer participants this year, traffic and parking should take less time than in years passed.

Q: Where do I park when I get to the Turkey Trot?
A: There are several adjacent lots in the surrounding areas of City Hall Plaza. We encourage people to ride DART, our official transportation provider of the Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot. For more info, contact DART at www.dart.org. There is a convenient DART rail station at the adjacent Dallas Convention Center.

Q: Is there a place I can leave my jacket, bag, etc.?
A: Due to the size of the event, a gear check is NOT AVAILABLE to general event attendees. Trot participants are encouraged to keep their gear with them at all times.

Q: Are there concessions available at the Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot?
A: The Turkey Trot will provide water and packaged snacks for our participants at no charge. Any additional refreshments or food is still to be determined for 2020.

Q: What if it rains or snows? Will you still have the Turkey Trot? 
A: No matter the weather, The Trot will go on! We recommend dressing in layers so you can be comfortable all morning.