The 2022 Turkey Trot Virtual Cross-Country Challenge for a Cure
Every November, the Celiac Disease Foundation hosts our annual, beloved Turkey Trot 5K, an inspirational event that raises funds for celiac disease research to accelerate treatments and a cure.
On November 12 and 13, more than 1,500 supporters from 46 states, Canada, and Guam laced up to move 3.1 miles (5K) “across the country” for a cure. Mapped on the Walker Tracker app as a cross-country route, participants’ steps were applied to the map, appearing as if they were traveling from coast-to-coast. Trotters began in New York and ended at the Celiac Disease Foundation headquarters in Los Angeles. After passing through the final landmark, each participant unlocked special sponsor offers and coupons.
The virtual style of the event allowed Trotters to participate from anywhere and choose any physical activity, including walking/running, mini-golf, ping pong, yoga, and gardening, that counted as “steps” toward the 3.1-mile goal. Each participant received an event t-shirt and bandana, with the option of a matching bandana for their pet, as well as a fundraising page, bib, race marker kit, finishing certificate, and more.
“As a Celiac Disease Foundation Board Member, I was thrilled to participate in the virtual Turkey Trot alongside friends and family from across the country. A great combination of being active together, raising funds to support the Foundation's mission of research, public advocacy, and education, and running in Central Park on a beautiful fall day!” - Warren Saft
Beginning in New York six years ago with just over 100 people, the Turkey Trot is a beloved event that continues to grow and empower our community while cultivating lasting relationships. Creating virtual teams with friends and family across the nation expanded the Foundation’s reach beyond state borders and strengthened our community. The Celiac Disease Foundation is proud to have hosted the 2022 Turkey Trot Virtual Cross-Country Challenge that united the celiac disease community in a unified mission to raise more than $165,000 for celiac disease research.
Thank you to all the participants, sponsors, and donors who made this event a success for raising funds and awareness for celiac disease. We invite you to view photos from our Virtual Turkey Trot Cross-Country Challenge weekend here.
Our sincerest gratitude and congratulations to everyone for their tremendous fundraising efforts, and a special thank you to the following:
- First place individual and team fundraiser Zoey Kornblau
- Second place individual and team fundraiser Gabrielle Saft
- Third place individual fundraiser Jim Watson
- Third place team fundraiser Zoe Schepps
- Fourth place team fundraiser Rebecca Sacks
- Fourth place individual fundraiser Emmy Stern
- Fifth place individual and team fundraiser Sarah Jones
We greatly appreciate the support of our Turkey Trot Sponsors: Crunchmaster, Trifecta, Caremoli, Gluten Detect, Snyder’s, BFree, Mikey’s, Jones Dairy Farm, Wasa, Bob’s Red Mill, Nairn’s, King Arthur, Jessica’s Natural Foods, Immundiagnostik, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, First 5 LA, UBS Bellomo & Seamon Wealth Management Group.
Didn’t get to participate in this year’s Turkey Trot?
Donate to the event, an individual’s fundraising page, or a team’s fundraising page here through November 26, 2022 to make an immediate impact on accelerating celiac disease research. Many employers offer a matching gift program, providing the chance to double, or even triple, the impact of your gift. See if your company will match your donation here.
Do you want to get involved in raising awareness and funds for celiac disease in your community? Learn more about Team Gluten-Free and make a difference today.