Locals wake up an appetite at SDJA Turkey Trot

The San Diego Jewish Academy’s second annual Turkey Trot 5K race was even bigger than the first.

Last year, 200 people showed up to run and walk. This year, around 300 people came to work up an appetite on Thanksgiving morning.

San Diego Jewish Academy student Jason Elson was dressed as a turkey and helped kick off the race at the starting line, followed closely by the school’s lion mascot.

Trotters, including serious runners, casual walkers, lots of families, kids in strollers and even a Chihuahua made the three-mile trek.

While getting in some exercise was the goal and some fabulous prizes were at stake, the main drive behind the event was the charity it supported. Proceeds from the event will go to the Hand Up Youth Food Pantry, a program at the Jewish Family Services Center that helps children in need.