Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune - -- Service members aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune have been gathering together before every holiday to join friends and family members in a heart-pumping three-mile run.
Semper Fit hosted the Turkey Trot 5K, a fun run to commence the Thanksgiving Day holiday, at the corner of Ash Street and Holcomb Boulevard, Nov. 19.
About 30 people registered for the run including Marines, sailors, family members and children, all eager to begin the race in the cool 60-degree weather.
Jessica Wyman, a military dependent, ran with her husband and son in their second fun run of the season. Wyman stated they do not come to race, but to enjoy time together.
“My husband pushes the stroller because he’s faster and stronger,” said Wyman. “It’s a nice family outing for us. I get to spend time with my husband and we get some exercise.”
The Wymans were not the only family to participate. The Caubles also brought out their children and family friends to run. Twelve-year-old Katie Cauble was one of the children to participate and one of the first female runners to complete the route. She placed fifth overall.
“I play soccer, so I run a lot,” said Cauble, who has played soccer for more than two years. “I’ve been practicing to get better for my soccer team, but I just came out here to have fun.”
Cauble joined her father for the run and plans to participate in the Christmas fun run as well.
“My dad comes if he gets the chance, but he needed (someone to run with) today,” she said. “My brothers and sisters did the run too, they just decided to walk instead.”
Service members also came in groups, jumping out of cars in twos and threes. As the run coordinators spoke with participants, one joked, “My friend tricked us. He said we were just going for a workout.”
Whatever the reason, participants endured the chill in the air as they completed their run, finishing in as early as 20 minutes. As runners finished, numbers were drawn for a raffle to give away different gifts such as clothing and gear for physical training.
“I love running, and I love coming out and running the races even though I know I’m not going to win,” said Wyman. “It keeps me motivated and keeps me running.”
The next liberty fun run scheduled is the Jingle Bell 5K, Dec. 16. For more information on the event, visit the website mccslejeune.com/libertyruns or call 451-5430.