Turkey Trot 5K for WTPS Unified Sports® Brings Wayne Community Together for Meaningful Thanksgiving Tradition

The morning of November 15th, 2025, brought together 319 runners and walkers in Wayne, NJ, for one of the community's most heartwarming pre-Thanksgiving traditions: the Turkey Trot 5K for WTPS Unified Sports® sponsored by Wayne Special Parents Association. This annual event perfectly combines the festive spirit of the holiday season with a powerful mission of inclusion, community support, and athletic excellence.

A Race With Purpose and Heart

The Turkey Trot 5K for WTPS Unified Sports® sponsored by Wayne Special Parents Association represents far more than just another 5K race on the calendar. This event stands as a testament to Wayne's commitment to inclusive sports programming and supporting students with special needs through the WTPS Unified Sports® program. Every registration, every stride, and every finish line crossing directly benefits programs that bring together students with and without intellectual disabilities, fostering friendships, understanding, and athletic development.

The Wayne Special Parents Association's sponsorship of this event highlights the dedication of local families and advocates who work tirelessly to create opportunities for all students to participate in athletic competition. With 319 total finishers crossing the timing mats this year, the community's support for this mission was evident and inspiring.

Perfect Morning for a Trot

Participants enjoyed ideal November racing conditions as they gathered at the start line in Wayne, NJ. The crisp autumn air and clear skies provided the perfect backdrop for both competitive runners chasing personal records and families enjoying a pre-Thanksgiving workout together. The festive atmosphere filled the venue, with many participants sporting turkey hats, holiday-themed running gear, and bright smiles that reflected the true spirit of the season.

The energy at the starting line was electric as runners young and seasoned, competitive and recreational, all prepared to support a cause that truly matters. The sense of community purpose added an extra dimension to the typical pre-race excitement.

Outstanding Performances on the Course

The 5K course challenged runners while showcasing the beautiful Wayne community. With 177 male and 142 female finishers, the event attracted a well-balanced field of participants who demonstrated impressive athletic performances throughout the morning.

Elite Competition at the Front

Frank M. Novak dominated the field with an outstanding finishing time of 16:22.96, claiming first place overall and demonstrating the speed and endurance that defines elite 5K racing. Novak's sub-17-minute performance set the bar high and provided inspiration for runners throughout the field.

The battle for second place proved equally impressive, with Bryson Coke securing the runner-up position in 18:03.75. Coke's strong finish showcased the depth of talent in the Wayne running community and the competitive nature of this growing event.

Rounding out the overall podium, Laurence Cruz crossed the finish line in 18:09.76, just six seconds behind Coke. The tight competition between second and third place kept spectators engaged and demonstrated the high level of racing throughout the front pack.

Community Impact Beyond the Clock

While the top finishers delivered impressive performances, the true success of the Turkey Trot 5K for WTPS Unified Sports® sponsored by Wayne Special Parents Association is measured in impact rather than minutes and seconds. The 319 total finishers represented families, educators, students, community supporters, and running enthusiasts who all came together for a common cause.

The funds raised through this event directly support WTPS Unified Sports® programming, which provides year-round sports training and athletic competition opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities. These programs don't just develop athletic skills—they build confidence, create lasting friendships, and foster a more inclusive school environment where all students can thrive.

Participants reported that the sense of community throughout the event made their racing experience particularly meaningful. From volunteers cheering at every turn to families pushing strollers alongside competitive runners, the event embodied the inclusive spirit that Unified Sports® promotes.

Professional Race Timing Ensuring Accurate Results

Tristate Timing was proud to provide professional race timing services for this meaningful community event. Using state-of-the-art timing technology and experienced personnel, we ensured that every participant received accurate chip-timed results, from the first finisher to the last.

Our professional timing services include real-time results processing, immediate online results posting, and comprehensive race data management. For the Turkey Trot 5K for WTPS Unified Sports® sponsored by Wayne Special Parents Association, we deployed our complete timing system to capture precise finish times for all 319 participants, ensuring that everyone's effort was properly recorded and recognized.

Participants can view their complete race results, including overall placement, age-group rankings, and pace information, through our RunSignup results platform. The full results provide detailed splits and performance data that help runners track their progress and set goals for future races.

The Tristate Timing Difference

When race directors choose Tristate Timing, they're partnering with a team that understands the critical role that accurate, reliable timing plays in creating a positive race experience. Our services include:

• Professional chip timing with backup systems for maximum reliability
• Real-time results posted online as participants cross the finish line
• Experienced timing staff who handle race-day logistics seamlessly
• Comprehensive race management support from registration to results
• Custom timing solutions tailored to each event's unique needs

For community events like the Turkey Trot 5K for WTPS Unified Sports® sponsored by Wayne Special Parents Association, our timing services help organizers focus on what matters most: creating meaningful experiences and supporting important causes while we handle the technical details.

Looking Forward to Future Races

The success of this year's Turkey Trot 5K for WTPS Unified Sports® sponsored by Wayne Special Parents Association sets the stage for continued growth and community impact in future years. Whether you're a competitive runner looking to test your speed, a family seeking a fun Thanksgiving tradition, or a community member wanting to support inclusive sports programming, this event offers something special for everyone.

View complete race results and photos on RunSignup

Are you planning a community race or timing event? Contact Tristate Timing today to learn how our professional race timing services can help make your event a success. We're proud to support meaningful community events throughout New Jersey and the tri-state area.

Join us in celebrating all 319 finishers who made this year's Turkey Trot 5K for WTPS Unified Sports® sponsored by Wayne Special Parents Association a memorable success. Your participation and support make a real difference in the lives of students in the Unified Sports® program. We'll see you at the starting line next year!

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Tristate Timing provides professional race timing services throughout New Jersey and the tri-state area. Contact us to discuss timing solutions for your next running event.