Saturday, November 18  |  8:30 am Check-in    Register Here

9:30 am - 10k run start time | 9:40 am - 5k walk/run start time

Walk, jog, or run at your own pace or try to beat the clock as you join the Department of Recreation at this traditional event! Join us for the 45th Annual Turkey Trot 5k/10k walk/run featuring breathtaking views of the ocean, campus lagoon, and Isla Vista! Open to UCSB students, faculty, staff, and community members, this event offers men's, women's, and open divisions and prizes for each length of the race.

Who can participate?
All UC Santa Barbara students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members are encouraged to participate!
 
When is the event?
The event is held Saturday, November 19 with check-in starting at 8:30 am. This is where you'll receive your race bib, Turkey Trot tank (as supplies last), etc. Join us for a live warm-up with a certified instructor before the 10k race starts at 9:30 am and the 5k walk/run starts at approximately 9:40 am.


    Where is the event?
    The walk/run features breathtaking views of the ocean, campus lagoon, and Isla Vista! Check-in at the Lagoon Lawn just behind the University Center. Park in lot 23. Check out the course map!

    How can I register?
    Pre-registration is open now and continues until Friday, November 18 at Noon. You can register and choose your division here. Day of registration is also available at a slightly higher cost. 
     

    Pre-registration Rates:

    • UCSB Students: $20
    • Non-Students: $30

     

    Day of Registration Rates:

    • UCSB Students: $25
    • Non-Students: $35

     

    What are the divisions?
    We offer three different divisions per length race: Men's, Women's, and Open divisions. We know that gender is not binary, and we want to acknowledge, include, and celebrate our nonbinary, agender, and any other person who wishes to participate. We know that there are barriers for nonbinary, trans, and agender people to access exercise and be active. We hope this category extends an opportunity for anyone of any gender to participate.

    Will there be prizes?!
    Yes! Prizes will be given to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners of each length race and division. 

    I’ve registered! Now what?
    Follow @ucsb_recreation on Facebook and Instagram for inspiration. Encourage your friends, and family to walk/run with you and start training. Don't know where to start? See below!

    No training? No problem! We Gaucho back!
    Our Fitness team has created a training plan for 5k beginners, check it out below. UCSB Recreation currently offers fitness and Mind Body classes called Get up GAUCHOS! Learn more here and join our classes to supplement your training program. 

    Questions?
    Reach out to our Assistant Director, Events & Scheduling, Ashley Marsh, at ashleymarsh@ucsb.edu

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    Turkey Trot Runner
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    5k Turkey Trotting 4 Week Training Program

    Download pdf


    Speed Days: Don't let the word speed intimidate you. We are running a shorter distance at a slightly faster pace. Your speed is completely subjective.

    Off Day: No running or training. Use some recovery techniques like foam rolling, self-massage, and even compression sleeves and ice if you are feeling really sore!

    Recovery Walk/Jog: Walk, jog, or a combination of the two at a nice and easy pace.

    Strength Day:
    (Week 1: 3 x 10 reps, Week 2: 3 x 15 reps, Week 3: 4 x 15 reps, Week 4: 3 x 12 reps)
    • Reverse Lunges
    • Dumbbell Over Head Press
    • 1-Leg Hinge or RDL
    • Dumbbell Bent Over Row
    • 1-Leg Hip Thrust
    • Russian Twists
    • Plank Hold: 
    (Weeks 1, 2 + 4: 45-60 sec., Week 3: 60-90 sec.)

    Endurance Day:
    Week 1:
     Run 2 miles at a pace that you feel you can go the entire time without stopping. Record your time and divide by 2 to get your endurance pace per mile. 
    Week 2-4: Strive to run at your endurance pace each mile.

    Active Recovery: This can be a recovery walk or jog, or get out into nature for a hike, beach walk, or even a swim!

    Week 1 Training Program

    Week 2 Training Program

    Week 3 Training Program

    Week 4 Training Program