The St. James R-1 School District’s 5th Annual Tiger Trot Thanksgiving 5k run/walk and 10k run on Nov. 29 is all about exercise, community spirit and raising money for a good cause. Funds from the annual event provide special gifts to nearly 1,600 students that are distributed before winter break.

“Our goal is to raise around $10,000 each year, with the hope of growing this into a lasting fund for future generations of students,” said Beth Keyes, communications director for St. James R-1 School District. 

The community can get involved by registering for the event or making a donation. The race route will begin at the St. James football field and go through the town of St. James. 

According to Keyes, the yearly gift is always a surprise. In previous years, students have received stocking caps, water bottles, bags, and district-branded blankets as gifts. 

“It means so much to see our community come together for our kids. Every gift is a little piece of kindness and hope, and it reminds our students that they’re surrounded by people who care about them,” Keyes said.

The run will begin at 9 a.m. on Nov. 29 at the St. James football field, 499 Emory St. in St. James. Prizes will go to first-place overall finishers for both men and women in each group of the 5k and 10k. Age groups are 5-12, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, and 50-plus. 

There will be an opportunity to capture an image against the Tiger backdrop before and after the event and also the opportunity to run through the Tiger Tunnel. Packet pick up and registration is Nov. 29 from 7-8:45 a.m. at the St. James Football field. The 5k is $30 after Oct. 30 and 10k is $35 for those not yet registered. 

For more information: https://stjtigertrot.itsyourrace.com/event.aspx?id=14842