QUINCY, ILL. -- A Quincy tradition drew record crowds this Thanksgiving.

More than 1500 people took part in the 31st annual YMCA Turkey Run early Thanksgiving morning.

But people didn't **have** to run, they could walk or swim laps as well.

Many people we spoke to told us it's a great way to kick off their Thanksgiving Holiday.

Runner Roni Pepper said, "I am out to run off my turkey before I eat it."

Runner Adam Duesterhaus said, "it's a bunch of fun people and they're out here because they want to be. It's also for a good cause to stay healthy and have fun."

Runner Greg Dierker said, "Last year we started this as a new family tradition."

All proceeds from the Turkey Run goes toward youth programs at the YMCA.

KHQA was proud to sponsor this year's event.