For the past 43 years, El Pasoans have woken up early to compete with their family in the annual YMCA Turkey Trot.

 This year, however, it looks like that family tradition is going to have to be adjusted.

In past years, over 900 people have shown up to participate in the YMCA Turkey Trot.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the increase in cases, gatherings with massive crowds are just not possible

  The event was still held, just not in the most traditional fashion; as with most things this year, the YMCA took a virtual route.

Instead of waking up early and putting on a turkey costume to run a 5k, participants ran in their own neighborhoods and on their own time.

  Anytime between November 6th and November 28th participants could run the 5K or 3K Fun Walk. 

By registering online or at a YMCA participants received a t-shirt and race packet.

After completing the run or walk, participants can submit their results to earn a medal.

Loretto senior, Maria Hobbs said, “It was fun before Covid because you could either run it competitively or easy. I chose easy so I could run with my sisters. The whole situation with Covid is really sad because turkey trots are a tradition all around the United States and are a great way to kick off Thanksgiving!”

While this might look strange, it is a great way to keep the community safe while maintaining traditions.