YMCA Turkey Trot early bird rate set to expire Oct. 14

Early bird pricing for the 121st annual YMCA Buffalo Niagara Turkey Trot is set to expire Friday, Oct. 14. Starting Saturday, the registration fee moves to $40 per entry and will remain at this rate until the race sells out, or until Nov. 17.

For the safety of all involved, race capacity is capped at 14,000. Online registration is available at ymcaturkeytrot.org. Paper registration forms also can be downloaded from the site, but are only being accepted through Oct. 14. Participants are strongly encouraged to save time by "going green," as there is no cost difference between paper and online registration. The entry fee includes all processing and a commemorative T-shirt.

The YMCA Turkey Trot begins at 9 a.m. sharp at the Delaware Family YMCA, 2564 Delaware Ave. It ends at Franklin and Court streets near the Buffalo Convention Center. At the conclusion of the event, participants are invited to partake in the post-race celebration and awards presentation at the Convention Center. A family-friendly, non-alcoholic post-race area is also available in Statler City, located across the street from the Convention Center.

Proceeds from this event help to make YMCA programs and services accessible to children and families at all YMCA Buffalo Niagara branches - people who would otherwise be unable to afford them. Last year, race participants helped the YMCA allocate nearly $1 million in financial assistance to Western New York families in need.

Locally founded in 1852, YMCA Buffalo Niagara is a charitable, community-based organization committed to providing programs designed to build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. The YMCA's focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility is reflected in the variety of programs that are offered to all ages and abilities. Collaborations with insurance carriers such as Univera, Independent Health, and BlueCross BlueShield provide the opportunity for those seeking a healthier lifestyle to do so at the YMCA.

A not-for-profit organization, YMCA Buffalo Niagara serves over 100,000 people annually through seven branches located throughout Western New York, as well as at more than 40 community-based program sites. For more information, visit www.YMCABN.org.