Concord, Calif. — The annual Concord Turkey Trot witnessed a capacity crowd of over 1,200 participants and volunteers at Newhall Park on Thanksgiving. The weather conditions were ideal as runners and walkers tackled the 5 Kilometer course. Civil Air Patrol Squadron 44 presented the colors, and the Women’s Ensemble Choir from Clayton Valley Charter High School sang the National Anthem. A Kids Run followed the 5K with a quick loop around the park.
Chico resident Dylan White claimed victory in the men’s race with an astounding time of 14:50, breaking his own course record set last year. Agustin Gomez de la Vega of Dublin secured second place, while Alex Walker of Concord took third. In the women’s race, Bella DeFreitas of Concord clinched the top spot with a time of 20:44, setting a new course record. Annie Morris of Clayton secured second place, and Teri Rossi of Concord finished third.
The event spectacularly raised $20,000, doubling what was raised last year, for Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa. Currently, Loaves and Fishes serves more than 2,400 meals daily, with an impressive total of 388,996 served last fiscal year alone. Moreover, the organization distributed over 249 tons of groceries in that time as well. In addition to their impactful meal programs, they maintain a thriving Culinary Arts Program. This workforce development program collaborates with local businesses, ensuring successful placements for graduates into the culinary industry.
Karen Introcaso, a Board Member for Loaves and Fishes, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled with the large turnout, which gives us the opportunity to showcase the day-to-day outreach activities of our organization. The more our community knows about our mission and purpose, the more resources we’ll have to help those in need.”
John Pamer, CEO of Presenting Sponsor Diablo Valley FCU, added, “It was our pleasure to work with our sponsors and volunteers to present this joyous event to our community. To see families and friends together having fun is what it’s all about.”
The Concord Turkey Trot is an annual event, and next year’s race is scheduled for Thursday, November 28, 2024, at Newhall Park in Concord.
About DVFCU: Chartered in 1961, Diablo Valley Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial cooperative. Profits are returned to members in the form of lower rates on loans, better rates on deposits, and fewer fees than traditional banks. Anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in central Contra Costa County is eligible to open an account. www.diablovalleyfcu.org
About Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa: The mission of Loaves and Fishes is to provide community-based food programs and partner services that focus on basic needs. Since 1983, Loaves and Fishes has served over 6 million meals to thousands of people in need throughout Contra Costa County. It has recruited thousands of volunteers and built an organization that has grown to serving over 388,996 meals and distributing over 249 tons of groceries each fiscal year. www.loavesfishescc.org
