ANNISTON — The Plucked Turkey 10K reached a major milestone this Thanksgiving morning, drawing the largest field in its 17-year history. Hosted by the Anniston Runners Club, the annual event brought 266 finishers and more than 300 total registrants to the Golden Springs neighborhood on Thursday.
The Plucked Turkey 10K began in 2008, evolving from an informal group run previously organized by former Anniston Runners Club president Dennis Dunn. Since its first official race, the certified 10K course — which begins and ends at the Norwood Hodges Community Center — has become a longstanding holiday tradition for local and visiting runners.
This year’s event saw multiple records fall. In addition to the highest number of participants ever, a new men’s course record was set by overall winner Luke Holcombe, who finished in 33:56, breaking a mark that had stood since 2009. Camryn Davis led the women’s division with a time of 42:25. Both runners are from Gadsden. Holcombe also earned a $50 bonus for setting the new course record.
Race awards included turkeys and pies provided by sponsor Honey Baked Ham for overall winners, while age-group champions received tote bags. Participants represented 13 different states, with many traveling to Anniston while visiting family over the Thanksgiving holiday.
Proceeds from the race support the YMCA of Calhoun County, which partners with the Anniston Runners Club to coordinate the event. This year’s run generated the highest fundraising total in its history.
The club also announced the continuation of its Fab Four event series for 2026, offering a bundled registration option for four major running events: the Half-Naked Half and Quarter Marathon, the Canyon Climb 8K/5K, the Woodstock 5K, and the Plucked Turkey 10K. The next race on the calendar is the Half-Naked Half and Quarter Marathon, scheduled for January 10, 2026, at the Fort McClellan Medical Mall. Proceeds will support a high school scholarship fund, and runners must register by December 10, 2025, to guarantee a long-sleeve race shirt. Volunteers are also being sought to help staff the event.
The Anniston Runners Club is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on promoting healthy lifestyles and fostering a strong running community in Calhoun County. The club is currently seeking sponsors for its 2026 race season. More information is available at annistonrunners.com.
