Virginia Run community volunteers will stage a Thanksgiving tradition on November 24 at 8:00 AM - the 17th Annual Virginia Run Turkey Trot.

The Trot includes a USATF-certified 5K running course as well as a 2K walking course. Each travels through the Virginia Run community at Route 29 and Pleasant Valley Road in Centreville.

All proceeds from the Turkey Trot benefit Life with Cancer, Inova Health System's nonprofit program for cancer patients and their families. This year the race is dedicated to Lynda Gubin, a Virginia Run resident who lost her life to cancer. "The Gubin family is very appreciative that this year's Turkey Trot is being run in Lynda's memory. After Lynda's first episode with cancer she was fixed on providing assistance to others with cancer. We are happy to know that she is still helping to advance the goal of aiding cancer patients," commented Ken Gubin. The event has been raising funds for the cancer program for 13 years. During that time, Life with Cancer has become a well-established support program and in 2004 the Turkey Trot attracted enough participants and sponsors to net a $50,000 donation to the charity.

The community volunteers have set a goal to raise $65,000 this year. Top supporters to date include: Carteret Mortgage, First Horizon Home Loans, Luck Stone, Mitchell Eye Institute, Northern Virginia Oncology Group, and Odyssey Travel. To donate via cash or raffle items, contact Bob Donnelley at (703) 830-1179.

The event is open to anyone wishing to enjoy the brisk weather and get some exercise before indulging in Thanksgiving fare. Last year more than 2,100 runners and 800 walkers participated.

Register on-line. It is quick and easy, and you will receive an instant confirmation of your entry. The entry fee is $20 to run and $13 to walk if registered by November 21. There is no race day registration for the run. Fee includes a short sleeve T- shirt, post race snacks, and raffle participation. Prizes are awarded to the fastest two males and females overall and in the Virginia Run residents' category. In addition, the top two runners in the following age categories will receive prizes: 10 & under, 11-14, 15-18, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69 and, new this year, 70 & over.

Full details about the event, including links to the on-line registration and a printable entry form, can be found on the race Web site.