ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot FAQs
What is the ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot?
The ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot is a family fun run with a timed and untimed 5-mile closed course run, a 1-mile closed course walk, and a kids K, held annually on Thanksgiving morning at The Long Center in Austin, TX.
What distances are offered?
The distances are a 5-mile closed course run (both timed and untimed), a 1-mile closed course walk, and a kids K.
Do I have to be a runner to participate?
No — walkers are always welcome at the ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot designed for all fitness levels and all ages.
Can I wear a costume?
Yes! Costumes are encouraged. Turkey, pilgrim, and Native American-themed outfits are especially popular. However, please ensure that your costume does not include any weapons or items that could be mistaken for weapons, as these are strictly prohibited.
Can I bring my dog?
To ensure the safest and most enjoyable experience for all participants, our event is designed exclusively for our two-legged runners and walkers! We love your furry family members and hope you’ll leave them comfy at home so they can cheer you on when you return for Thanksgiving dinner! But if you bring them, please have them on a leash and start toward the back.
Can I push a stroller?
Absolutely! We ask that you start towards the back of your distance to help prevent folks from tripping over wheels. Little ones in strollers aren’t required to be registered (unless they run in the Kids K), but we welcome any/all additional donations. 100% of proceeds go to Caritas of Austin.
What time does the race start?
Timed runners start at 8:30 a.m., Kids K at 8:45 a.m., untimed runners start at 9:30 a.m., and 1-mile walkers start at 9:45 a.m. Subject to change.
How do I register?
Register online at https://thundercloud.com/turkeytrot/
Is there an age minimum or maximum?
No — The ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot is open to all ages, from toddlers to seniors.
What does the registration fee include?
You get to select between an adult long sleeve t-shirt, a short sleeve youth t-shirt, a headband/wristband set, a $10 gift card to ThunderCloud Subs, or a custom pint glass. You’ll also receive a commemorative run bib, a BOGO coupon from ThunderCloud Subs, and post-race snacks and refreshments.
Will I get a T-shirt?
Yes, a free T-shirt (or other gift choice) is included as part of your registration.
Is there a deadline to register?
Yes, we offer several levels of early bird pricing and day of event pricing. The final deadline is Thanksgiving morning by 8 a.m.
Can I register on race day?
Yes, but we discourage last minute registration due to the large crowds and added cost.
What should I wear?
Dress in layers appropriate for the weather. Many participants wear costumes over their running clothes.
What kind of shoes should I wear?
Running or walking shoes are recommended.
Where do I park?
Parking is available at the following locations. Arriving early is strongly recommended as lots fill up quickly.
- Palmer Events Center Long Center, 736-820 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
- Austin City Hall Parking Garage, 301 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 ,
- One Texas Center, 505 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704,
- State Garage N, 300 San Antonio St, Austin, TX 78701,
- Bat Bride Lot – 305 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704,
- Silicon Labs Parking Garage, 166 Colorado St, Austin, TX 78701
Are there other options besides driving to the event?
- The ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot encourages biking to the Long Center where there will be a free and secure coral to park your bike.
- Ride sharing is also an option. Uber is a preferred sponsor of the event.
Where do I pick up my race packet?
Can someone else pick up my race packet?
Yes–pickup by a friend or family member is allowed with a copy of your registration confirmation.
What happens if it rains?
The event will go on, rain or shine. Under the possibility of hazardous weather (eg. lightning, high winds), the officials may be forced to cancel or delay the event. Under these circumstances, there will be no refunds. This is a charity event–100% of the proceeds go to Caritas of Austin. Have fun and stay safe.
Is the course certified?
Yes, the ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot 5-mile course is USATF-certified.
Will there be water stations on the course?
Yes—there are four water stops on the course.
Is there a time limit to finish?
Yes, the police will open the course to traffic at _______
Will results be posted?
Yes — if you registered as a timed runner, please go here for race results.
Are there awards or prizes?
The ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot gives trophies to the top three finishers of each age and sex category.
Timed Divisions
Grand Master, Master & Overall for Males and Females
Male & Female Age Groups (top 3)
10 and under
Age 11-12
Age 13-14
Age 15-16
Age 17-19
Age 20-24
Age 25-29
Age 30-34
Age 35-39
Age 40-44
Age 45-49
Age 50-54
Age 55-59
Age 60-64
Age 65-69
Age 70-74
Age 75-79
Age 80-84
Age 85+
Top 3 in the following divisions:
Non-Binary
Maternity (Women Only)
Baby Jogger (Male & Female)
Wheelchair
Longhorn (Male & Female)
Groups & Fundraising
Team Spirit (largest group)
Fastest Timed Team (team of 5 or more TIMED)
Top 3 Individual Fundraisers
Top Team Fundraiser
Can I get a refund if I can't participate?
The ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot does not offer refunds, but 100% of the proceeds go to Caritas of Austin.
Is the race chip-timed?
If you register as a timed runner, you will receive a chip embedded in your bib.
Does the event benefit a charity?
The ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot has chosen Caritas of Austin as its sole beneficiary since 1991.
Will there be post-race food or festivities?
The ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot includes post-race snacks and the Stepping Stone School Activity Tent for the kids
How do I volunteer if I don't want to run?
Volunteers are the lifeblood of our event. Please sign up here.
Can I run with headphones?
Sure, but please be aware of your surroundings.
Is there a bag check?
We do not offer a bag check at this event. We encourage participants to leave valuables at home or secured in your vehicle. Please note that no weapons of any kind are permitted on the event grounds, including firearms, knives, or any other weapon, regardless of permit or license. Anyone found carrying a weapon will be removed from the event.
Where is the start line?
Start line location is on the north end of the First Street Bridge.
Is the course flat or hilly?
Be prepared for a few minor hills.
Will there be a pacer group?
There will be no pacer group. Please run at your own pace. Be aware that the course will close at 11:30 a.m.
Can I walk the entire race?
Absolutely — walking is always welcome at the ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot, which is designed to be inclusive for all fitness levels, but be aware that the course will be open to traffic at 11:30 a.m.
What if I need to cancel my registration?
We do not offer refunds, but all proceeds go to Caritas of Austin.
Can I transfer my registration to someone else?
If you’d like to transfer your registration to someone else, please email us at turkeytrot@thundercloud.com.
How early should I arrive on race morning?
Parking is limited and we expect a large crowd, so please allow plenty of time to park and warm-up. We reccomend arriving at least an hour before your start time.
Will there be portable restrooms at the start?
Yes — The ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot provides portable restrooms near the start/finish area and at the water stops, though lines can be long close to race time.
Are there restrooms along the course?
Yes, there will be portable restrooms at the rest stops.
What is a corral and which one should I be in?
Faster runners start in front, walkers in the back.
Do kids need to register?
Yes, Kids K participants must register.
Is there a kids' race?
Yes, The ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot offers a Kids K, roughly .62 miles, which starts by age group oldest to youngest.
What is the minimum age for the 5-mile?
There is no minimum age, though we suggest that children under 10 be accompanied by an adult.
Can I run with a wheelchair or adaptive equipment?
- Yes, in fact The ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot has a wheelchair division.
Will there be medical staff on the course?
Yes, medical personnel are near the finish line. Please call ____________ if you need first aid or emergency assistance.
Is there a lost and found?
Lost and found is located a the Stepping Stone School Activity Tent near the Long Center.
Will there be photography on the course?
How do I find my race photos?
Can I run with a baby carrier?
Baby carriers are allowed, but please use good judgment for the safety of your child.
What is the course route?
The course map can be found here.
Will the roads be closed to traffic?
The ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot is a closed course during the duration of the event. Note that the roads will reopen at 11:30.
What happens at the finish line?
Finishers will have an opportunity for water and refreshments at the Long Center Terrace.
How do I request an accommodation for a disability?
Can I run as part of a team or group?
Yes — The ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot offers team registration options for families, coworkers, or running clubs.
Are there discounts for groups or teams?
The ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot does not offer discounts for groups or teams. All proceeds benefit Caritas of Austin.
Can I fundraise as part of my registration?
Yes, the ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot has fundraising tools built into the registration platform. We encourage fundraising.
We want to end homelssness in Austin. The City of Austin spends on average $27,805 per homeless person (PER YEAR!) to provide shelter and food, but never addresses clothing, permanent residence or vocational training. On average, Caritas of Austin spends $17,000 to raise a person out of homelessness into a self-sufficient working individual with their own place to call home.
How do I contact the race director with a question not covered in the FAQs?
For questions not answered in the FAQ, please email us at turkeytrot@thundercloud.com.
Are bicycles allowed on any of the courses?
No. Only items powered by the parent/guardian are allowed (wagons & strollers) on course. Self-powered mechanisms (scooters & bicycles) are not allowed on the course. However, we do encourage you to ride your bike to the event and offer a secure bike corral.
Is shipping included if I sign up for the virtual events?
Shipping is extra and starts at $10 for individuals. $5 extra is charged for each additional registrant selected at the same mailing address. Please note that we will not ship pint glasses. These items MUST be picked up in person.
How do I participate in the virtual event?
To participate in the virtual event, you can register and compete virtually to see how you stack up against other participants. Each registration includes a selection of giveaways such as a t-shirt (long sleeve for adults and short sleeve for youths), a pint glass, socks, a headband/wristband set, and a $10 gift card to ThunderCloud Subs. Alternatively, you can choose to donate the cost of your gift to Caritas of Austin. For more details or to register, please visit here.
What's happening after the event?
Refreshments will be served on the terrace of the Long Center and category winners can grab their award.
I need assistance as a blind runner. Can you help?
Please contact us at turkeytrot@thundercloud.com for details about being a blind runner.
