Community First Thanksgiving Distance Classic
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Community First Thanksgiving Distance Classic
The Community First Thanksgiving Distance Classic is an annual running event in Jacksonville held for its 42nd edition. The event features multiple distances:
- Half Marathon
- 5K
- One mile Turkey Trot
The half marathon began in 1984 with 500 runners and still finishes at Pickwick Park Shopping Center. The event typically draws over 3,000 participants and serves as a fundraiser for the Mandarin Food Bank. A portion of each entry fee is donated to the food bank, and participants are invited to bring canned goods at packet pickup. Funds from the event also support construction and maintenance of a new three-mile running and walking path in Aterro Recreation Park on Sunbeam Road.
Race swag includes a long-sleeve moisture-wicking shirt, a finisher medal for all finishers, a race bib, and a goodie bag similar to previous years. Prize structure for the half marathon includes cash awards for top three overall finishers and a masters prize, with age-group plaques and age-group awards offered in both the half marathon and the 5K. There is a 3.5 hour course limit; digital clocks mark each mile and the finish. Traffic control is provided by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office though course traffic will be present. Packet pickup is available at selected 1st Place Sports locations on Tuesday, November 25 from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Wednesday, November 26 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Post-race food and drink are available near the finish at Pickwick Plaza.
This race is part of the 2025-2026 Jacksonville Grand Prix series; top-ten age-group finishers earn series points toward end-of-season prizes. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
