Annual Medina Turkey Chase brings more than 800 runners to the Medina Square

MEDINA — Runners gathered in the Medina Square on Thanksgiving morning for the chance to beat a "turkey" in a race and win a pumpkin pie. Medina's annual turkey chase involves a 4-mile race and a 1-mile fun run for kids. Beth Bugner is one of the race organizers, and she said the race sold out again on Monday with 850 people signing up this year. Every year, someone dresses up as "Turkey Tom" and joins the race, she said. Those who beat Turkey Tom in the race are entered into a drawing, which is sponsored by Second Sole Medina and Brooks this year. There will be 20 people who win $100 to shop at Second Sole for Brooks apparel. The top 50 men and top 50 women will win a pumpkin pie for their efforts, Bugner said. Then, the man and woman who come in first place win a Honey Baked Ham gift card. Dillon Hach, 20, of Medina, was the first man to cross the finish line, and Becky Nussbaum, 38, of Lakeville, was the first woman to do so. Proceeds from the race will go to Medina's Shop with a Cop program again this year, she said. Shop with a Cop gives local children in need the opportunity to purchase gifts ahead of the holidays while shopping with a police officer. "We knew that they not only take the kids shopping, but they provide a special morning for the kids with a delicious breakfast and other things such as coats and gloves and of course time with a local officer in their police car too," Bugner said. "(It's) likely even more things we aren't aware (of). We know they spend the money on the kids and make a meaningful impact on each child during this special time of the year." Bugner said she hopes this year's turkey chase was a "great day for all." "We have so many big groups, families (and) runners from 24 states who celebrate Thanksgiving here in Medina, or nearby," she said. "It's just a nice way to start the holiday." Contact reporter Madisyn Woodring at (330) 721-4049 or mwoodring@medina-gazette.com.