To the Editor:

On Thanksgiving Day, Siman Family Charities hosted the inaugural McHenry Turkey Trot, a 5K run/walk to benefit Hospice and Palliative Care of Northeastern Illinois. Initially, we hoped to attract about 100 to 150 runners. We never imagined we would have 594 runners.

The day was beautiful, and the race went off without a hitch as all the runners took off from McHenry High School East Campus precisely at 8 a.m. The first runners crossed the finish line in just under 16 minutes, followed by people having fun. Some in costume, some with their dogs and others pushing strollers or walking with friends and family. First-place male and female runners were awarded $200 in cash, with second place taking home new Brooks running shoes.