While most Thanksgiving traditions include consuming a large home cooked meal, many in Michiana make it their mission start the day off with a run that supports the Niles community.

This year, the tradition will continue.

The Niles-Buchanan YMCA will host the 36th annual Thanksgiving Day Run on Nov. 23.  Three different races are available, including the 10k, which begins at 7:45 a.m.; the 5k, which begins at 9:15 a.m.; and the 1-mile Fun Run, which starts at 9:20 a.m. Participants will meet at the YMCA, located at 905 N. Front St.

The race typically draws more than 2,000 people to participate and this year YMCA Marketing Coordinator Alexa Tupper said the same crowd is expected.

Proceeds from the race support the YMCA’s Annual Campaign, which helps to fund the Summer My Way program, After School Program, youth sports, and Community Outreach Water Safety, just to name a few. Last year’s net proceeds garnered $35,000 for the campaign.

In the spirit of giving thanks, this year’s theme will pay homage to a Niles legend, whose core values were grounded in giving back to the community.

Artist John Lidecker was well-known for his local art and his tropical style. Lidecker passed away earlier this year at the age of 63.

In his honor, those who traverse the race course are invited to don Hawaiian shirts, flip-flops and floral leighs.

Tupper said she felt honoring Lidecker was fitting way to give thanks this Thanksgiving. 

“We wanted to celebrate everything he did for the Y,” Tupper said. “He always had on a Hawaiian shirt and flip-flops no matter what the weather.”

For years, Lidecker put his signature touch on T-shirts created for the Thanksgiving Day Run event. Lidecker’s art could also be found around town, including several local businesses, such as Rusty Hooks Bait & Tackle, Tippy Toes and Brew Ha Ha.

This year’s race logo also pays tribute to Lidecker and includes a turkey dressed in a Hawaiian shirt holding a sign that reads “Eat more beef.”

“We’ve received an overwhelming response to the design, and we hope to see the shirts all around the community for years to come,” Tupper said.

Tupper invited the community to participate in the Thanksgiving Day tradition, which was first inspired by Ted Majerek. The aim of the race was to get the community active, while bringing people together for the holiday. 

“It is a great family event for everyone,” Tupper said. “You see such a wide range of people. It really brings together everyone in the community.”

From whole families to intense runners and those who cheer on the racers from the sidelines, the race aims to offer something for everyone. Three runners who have participated in the race since its inception are expected to return, including Bob Smola, Charlie Frey and Jerry Hoffman. Additionally, Theresa Pipher, a local nurse in the area, has ran all but one race. Pipher created a quilt from past years’ t-shirts that will be available for viewing in the YMCA lobby.

Cost for an individual to enter the race is $30 until midnight Nov. 21. After Nov. 21, the cost to participate will be $35. Day-of registration is available. To register, visit runsignup.com/Race/MI/Niles/NilesThanksgivingDayRun.