WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca’s Turkey Trot Attracts Big Crowd and Significant Donations for Food Bank for Monterey County

WeatherTech Raceway’s Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot, presented by Montage Health raised an impressive $9,538, along with a record 10 overflowing barrels of donated non-perishable food items for the Food Bank for Monterey County. 

Laguna Seca associates checked in guests from 7 to 11 a.m. and though it was chilly, very few did not break a sweat at the 2.238 mile course with an elevation gain of 180 feet. The world-renowned road course came alive with hundreds of runners, walkers, and even four-legged friends, all united for a cause that embodied the spirit of giving. Last year the raceway brought two barrels full of food items but this year that number increased to 10 overflowing barrels.

According to Melissa Kendrick, CEO and executive director of the Food Bank for Monterey County, every dollar donated has the power to distribute $5 of food and every $10 feeds a family of four. The non-profit organization is a lifeline for the community, feeding one in three children and one in four residents in Monterey County. As the largest and most comprehensive provider of emergency supplemental food in the community, the Food Bank ensures nobody is left behind. 

Barry Toepke, director of heritage events and public relations at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, shared his enthusiasm for the event: “We were thrilled to have so many families from our community enjoy their morning together for a common cause. We also welcomed visitors from across the country and abroad, including Illinois, Michigan, Florida, Oregon, Japan, and Germany. Even the canine participants, though tired, wagged their tails as they crossed the finish line.”

Looking ahead, the full Friends of Laguna Seca season kicks off May 2 with the Laguna Seca SpeedTour. Advance tickets, VIP hospitality packages, and camping options are now available for all events on the newly launched WeatherTechRaceway.com website or by calling the Tickets and Accommodations Specialists at 831-242-8200.

Mark your calendars and join the community for another season of unforgettable events at Laguna Seca. Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected Monterey County.