Pinckneyville Middle School’s Turkey Trot Celebrates 30 Years

Pinckneyville Middle School celebrated the 30th anniversary of their annual Turkey Trot race around campus on November 22. A beloved tradition since 1994, the pre-Thanksgiving, one-mile race brought students, staff and parents together for a fun-filled, active event.

Created by dedicated P.E. teacher, Cindy Kirksey, the Turkey Trot has become a highlight of the school year. The race not only promotes a healthy lifestyle but also fosters school spirit and community involvement.

The top three finishers for both boys and girls in each grade received a free 10–12 lb turkey to enjoy during the Thanksgiving holiday. The top 10 finishers were honored with prestigious medals. And, once the race had concluded, all participants had the chance to win exciting prizes in the school gym.

The school extends its sincere gratitude to the PTSA and the entire school community for the generous donations of prizes and turkeys. Their support made the event possible and brought joy to many families to kick off the holiday season.

This year’s winners

6th grade Girls 

1.  Lucy Byrne
2. Jules Craig
3. Charlotte Young

6th grade Boys

1. McCoy Brown
2. Collin Upshaw
3. Tripp Wiggins

7th grade Girls

1. Hadley Reich
2. Blaine Ellis
3. Nyria Smith 

7th grade Boys

1. Colin Fabian
2. Teddy Heibenstreit
3. Teddy Marshall 

8th grade Girls

1. Lily Armes
2. Kaitlyn Brown
3. Tori Duva

8th grade Boys

1. John Sprinkle
2. Anthony Hillman
3. Braxton Romeyn