Connor Grant of Marietta crosses the finish line of the Gobble Jog 10K race in his turkey costume as he participated in the Thanksgiving Day event in downtown Marietta last year. This year, 10,000 runners from nearly all 50 states are expected at the annual event that benefits MUST Ministries.
Cherokee Tribune/File
Cherokee Tribune/File
Registration is at 7 a.m. and the first race begins at 8 a.m. The Gobble Jog is certified as a qualifier for seeding in the Peachtree Road Race and the US 10K Classic.
“It’s important for people to support the Gobble Jog because it’s (MUST Ministries’) largest fundraiser. It is a significant way that we are able to support our neighbors in need,” said Kaye Cagle, director of PR and marketing for MUST Ministries.
MUST, a faith-based organization founded in 1971, is dedicated to providing services to persons and families in crisis while maintaining their dignity. MUST provides assistance in five different areas and in five locations including food, clothes, housing, education, employment and health care, according to Cagle.
The range of services includes emergency shelter, transitional housing, meals, groceries, clothing, job readiness and placement, financial assistance, children’s programs, community support groups and access to free healthcare.
Cagle said, “People come from all over to run. We have people from 48 states running in this race. It’s one of 10 largest races in the Atlanta area.”
MUST anticipates 10,000 runners will gather on Marietta Square for the rain or shine event, many people in costume.
“The Gobble Jog is just very festive,” Cagle said. Anything goes at the Gobble Jog including strollers, pets, walking and running.
“The Gobble Jog is a great family event. There is something for everyone,” she said. “It is great fun. It’s a very festive atmosphere, and you’re helping to fight poverty at the same time. For many people, the Gobble Jog is a family tradition.”
To volunteer on race day or make a monetary donation, call (770) 427-9862 or visit www.mustministries.org. Information can also be found at www.gobblejog.org or by calling the Gobble Jog Hotline at (678) 218-4521.
Post a Comment