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Scene & Heard: Turkey trotters take to the streets

Published 1:30 pm Tuesday, December 2, 2025

By John Decker For The Beachcomber

John Decker Photo This year’s Turkey Trot brought more than 100 islanders and visitors to the center of Vashon.
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John Decker Photo

This year’s Turkey Trot brought more than 100 islanders and visitors to the center of Vashon.

John Decker Photo This year’s Turkey Trot brought more than 100 islanders and visitors to the center of Vashon.
This year’s Turkey Trot brought more than 100 islanders and visitors to the center of Vashon. (John Decker Photo)
Leif McBennett and Lucy Boyle, the top male and female finishers. (James Batey Photo)
(Left to right) VHS cross country team members Emily Harrington, Cedar Henderson and Sadie Reissiger led the way at the annual Chautauqua Elementary School Turkey Trot on Wednesday, Nov. 26. (James Batey Photo)

Under a canopy of stubborn gray clouds that threatened rain but ultimately relented, more than 100 runners —and at least a dozen dogs — took to the roads for the 2025 Vashon Island Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning.

The annual event, a beloved island tradition, successfully drew participants from near and far, including a contingent all the way from New York City. More than just a pre-holiday dash, the trot served as a vital fundraiser, with all proceeds supporting the Vashon High School cross country and track programs.

The competitive spirit was high, as local athletes dominated the top spots. Leif McBennett, a current sophomore member of the track and cross country teams, blazed a trail as the first male finisher. In the women’s division, Vashon Cross Country and Track team alumni Lucy Boyle showcased her enduring speed, finishing as the first female.

The organizers of the event extend a heartfelt thanks to everyone who came out, making the overcast morning a bright success for island athletics.

Mark your calendars: The annual Jingle Bell Run is happening at 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, and all island runners and visitors are invited . The event promises a festive atmosphere, encouraging participants to don their best holiday gear or an ugly sweater. It all begins at the Recess Lab parking lot. Follow @vashon.distance on Instagram for the latest updates.

John Decker is an award-winning photojournalist and commercial photographer who lives on Vashon and supports Vashon High School cross country and track programs.

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