Marine Corps Base Quantico -- Spectators and volunteers journeyed aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico to support 1,700 runners at the Marine Corps Marathon Turkey Trot 10K, Nov. 21.
Turkey adorned mommies, stroller-pushing daddies, and runners of all ages kicked off the event with a one-mile run at 8:25 a.m. to shed the holiday pounds before the season of indulgence begins.
Runners began the 10K-race 30 minutes later in a sprint to complete the year-end event for MCM. The route weaved its way through the mainside of Quantico, starting and finishing at Lejeune Hall.
Both top male and female front-runners accomplished their first MCM win after participating for years.
Top male finisher, Adam Lowe, crossed the finish line in 35:32. He completed his first race with MCM five years ago, and continued to run with the Marines every year.
Christopher Pirch, of Spotsylvania, Va., and Sean Weddel, of Bealton, Va., were close contenders, finishing in 35:38 and 35:43.
The Marine Corps’ races are “amazing” said Lowe, a Thomas Stone High School physical education teacher from Waldorf, Md. “I try to do as many races as possible. Not only is it the best organized race, but I love having the Marines everywhere cheering us on.”
Capt. Lindsey Carroll, Marine and Family Programs staff, a native of Alexandria, Va., was the first female to complete the race with a time of 41:16.
“I run on base nearly everyday, and so I really enjoyed this course. I know the hills and view,” said Carroll, who completed this year’s MCM Historic Half.
The Turkey Trot has evolved from a base run for Quantico’s community and “expanded to public participation, so that we can give back to our community,” said Col. Allen Broughton, Marine Corps National Capitol Region-Marine Corps Base Quantico chief of staff.
“Physical fitness is a big part of Marine Corps life, and we enjoy having the community on our base so that they can learn about our culture,” said Broughton who supports the races as a frequent volunteer.
The year-end Turkey Trot sold out; and so MCM organizers are urging runners to begin registration early. Running enthusiasts can prepare for the first 2016 race series and register now for Marine Corps 17.75K April 2 in Prince William Forest Park.
MCM is adding the Semper Five, five miler, to the 2016 Historic Half held in Fredericksburg, Va., May 15. Log onto www.marinemarathon.com to register for MCM 2016 events.
— Writer: iirby@quanticosentryonline.com