NORWICH – Runners, take your mark. The Norwich Family YMCA is gearing up for its 31st annual Turkey Trot, expected to usher in hundreds of runners and walkers from across the area to take part in a 5K race through the streets of Norwich.

The Turkey Trot – a long-loved tradition for the City of Norwich – steps off the start line at 12:30 p.m. Sunday. The race is preceeded by the kids Neighborhood Fun Run at noon. Registration is $20 for adults, $25 after Nov. 15. Students grade 12 and under are $15 and as always, the Neighborhood Fun Run is free. This year, all participants are also encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to support the local food pantries. Funds raised will help uphold the mission of the YMCA and its programs.

Nearly 700 people turned out to walk and run at last year’s event, ready to compete or simply push a baby stroller; and for many, it didn’t mater what they placed, so long as they finish the course. “This is something that the whole community can contribute to,” said YMCA Fitness Director and Turkey Trot Coordinator Shannon Gawronski. “It’s something that’s very doable. There’s nobody that can’t get around a 5K.”

The Turkey Trot also knows no age barriers, Gawronski said. She pointed out that over the years, the number of participants have grown at both ends of the age spectrum. “They’re starting younger and lasting longer,” she explained. Last year, kids as young as seven took to the 5K start line, along with several participants over the age of 80. In fact, so many elderly participants joined in that the race now includes a division for participants 80 and older.