December 6, 2025 / Pike County News / By Stan Schwartz
Ben Chance, left, and Angela Matlock were the two top runners in the 2025 PCHD Turkey Trot. Photo by Stan Schwartz
They came, they saw, they ran—some trotted and some strolled. But they were willing to get up early on Thanksgiving Day to participate in the 8th Annual Turkey Trot.
According to Kim Gamm, 243 people participated, donating to help the Pike County Health Department Home Health and Hospice fund treatment and services for people who are unable to pay for them (Public Health Initiatives).
Jennifer Schumacher, coordinator for the event, said that even though there were just a few less participants from last year, she was pleased with the turnout.
In preparation for the trot, PCHD staff mapped out the course, placing signs along the way to guide the runners.
Gamm thanked the group for coming out on such a chilly morning to help others.
She noted that a lot of people have participated in the last eight years, several who had returned year after year.
“We appreciate that,” she said. “So, not only are we here to run eat and nap but we’re also here to give back to the community.”
She also thanked those who donated goods to the Hope Center.
“We appreciate your generosity.”
The participants were provided a grab-and-go breakfast as well as water before and after their run.
For the first time, Schumacher said, they were awarding Turkey Trophies to the first-, second- and third-place winners for the men and women racers.
There was also a best dressed turkey contest for those who came in costume. There were families, individuals, couples and buddies racing together. There were even a few dogs ready to take on the course.
They had a brief prayer before heading outside to start the trot.
Winning the men’s category was Ben Chance. Coming in second overall not far behind Ben, was Angela Matlock for the women.
She told Ben that she thought this year was the one were she would beat him in this race.
Proud Tom Sponsors of the 2025 Turkey Trot were, Sparks Maintenance Contracting, Perry Agricultural Laboratory, Pike County Health Department, Bowling Green RX Family Drug, Ameriprise Financial, Crow Lane Pet Grooming, Rotary Club of Bowling Green, Shelter Insurance: Brent W. Branstetter, Pike County Mutual Insurance Co., Danny Orf Contracting, Portwood Welding & Fabrication, Legion Industrial Equipment, and Bibb-Veach Funeral Homes & Crematory.
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