44th Annual Fort Worth YMCA Turkey Trot Makes its Way to Downtown Fort Worth
August 26,2025
See full The Business Press article here.
Year-over-year of unprecedented growth have led the 44th annual YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth Turkey Trot to establish a new starting line in Downtown Fort Worth. The updated location is designed to accommodate the race’s ever-growing popularity and the increasing number of individuals and families who make the Trot a Thanksgiving tradition. Taking place for the first time in the heart of the city, the new route will also offer iconic views, as participants pass the Tarrant County Courthouse, Sundance Square, the Trinity River, and, of course, the YMCA’s Downtown Fort Worth Branch.
The Trot is making the move after two years at The Shops at Clearfork. This year’s starting lines will be located in front of Bass Hall at 525 Commerce St., with the finish line and other activities taking place near General Worth Square in front of the Fort Worth Convention Center.
Last year, more than 12,000 people, spectators, and pets participated in 5K and 8K races and the children’s Gobbler Trot. Trot organizers say the new location allows the YMCA to welcome more participants, build greater awareness, and continue growing the Trot’s impact for years to come.
All proceeds from Turkey Trot registration fees support YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth programs that benefit the overall well-being of individuals residing in Tarrant, Johnson, Parker, and Hood counties.
“The Turkey Trot is more than a fun holiday tradition; it’s a powerful engine for good. It fuels a mission that touches thousands of lives each year,” said Mike Brown, president and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth. “Thanks to the incredible generosity of our sponsors and participants, this event has helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars to ensure access to YMCA programs that change lives, from afterschool care and early education to financial literacy for teens and seniors. It even supports critical health initiatives for cancer survivors and individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.”
This marks the third year that Texas Health Resources will serve as presenting sponsor for the annual event, which is also supported by Moritz Dealerships.
“Texas Health is proud to continue our long-standing affiliation with the YMCA Turkey Trot,” said Jared Shelton, president of Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth. “We believe wellness begins outside our hospital walls, and the Turkey Trot is a perfect way to celebrate health, friendship, and community spirit.”
“We look forward to showcasing our city to all the families and visitors who make the Trot part of their Thanksgiving tradition,” Brown said. “Every step taken on race day helps someone in our community take a step toward a better future.”
Turkey Trot volunteer opportunities and additional sponsorship options are available. To learn more or to register as a Trot participant, visit www.fwtrot.org or follow the race on Facebook @FWTROT.
Location Mentioned: YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth