My race number from way back in 2009
My race number from way back in 2009

This Thursday, Thanksgiving morning, at 8:00AM, while some are still asleep, and many others are starting up ovens, crock pots, and other kitchen gadgets for the day’s feast, over 1,200 runners will be starting their day in downtown Carrboro with the Gallop & Gorge 8K. For as long as I can remember, I, and occasionally also my wife and daughters, have participated in the 5 mile jaunt through Carrboro. We are not alone. It has been a local family tradition for many. It is not unusual to see three generations of runners participating.

100's of runners prepare to start the annual Gallop and George run in Carrboro
Photo by Jim Kenny

We are usually joined by the mayor, who looks to have been clowning around in this photo from 2015

Mayor Seils and his buddy clown around on the course in this photo from 20156
Photo by Jim Kenny

Sometimes runners will dress up as turkeys, and some will get an early jump on Christmas and don Santa hats. Whatever way we dress, we run through the neighborhoods, cheered on by neighbors and even serenaded by people playing music. I have only missed one year, the year interrupted by the COVID pandemic.

A runner, John Rees, prepares to start running in the Gallop and Gorge
Photo by Jim Kenny

This year I will be running again, and look forward to good weather and good cheer. The event is run by the Cardinal Track Club, and all proceeds from the race are donated to their community partners. Over $600k in donations have been awarded since the beginning of the club!

There is still time to sign up. Consider joining us. It is lots of fun.
Thanks! Cardinal Track Club and Fleet Feet Carrboro

John Rees lives in Chapel Hill. He was, until very recently, a member of the Chapel Hill Planning Commission and former chair. He serves on the board of the Bicycle Alliance of Chapel Hill, and is also...