Balloons Released In Memory Of
Friends, Family At 3rd Turkey Trot
ONEONTA – Participants of the 3rd annual Turkey Trot wrote the names of loved ones, inspirational messages and prayers for sick or deceased family and friends on hundreds of biodegradable balloons which were released into the air before the start of the race this morning.
Event organizer Kelley McGraw had attended a Turkey Trot race in Cortland and brought the idea back here and presented it to Hospice. “They loved it and the first year we were hoping for 100 people and we ended up getting 700!”
The event, which had been gaining in numbers, boasted nearly 900 runners this morning in Oneonta’s 6th ward.
“Everyone is in such a good mood when they finish the race.” McGraw said.
Re the Turkey Trot, I’m surprised balloons were released when it’s known it’s no longer environmentally acceptable. There are other ways to celebrate. Please think about changing this aspect of the race next year.