Thanksgiving turkey trots are a beloved tradition across the U.S., offering families a chance to get a final workout in before diving into their holiday feasts. But this year’s Watertown YMCA Turkey Day Run in Watertown, N.Y., was disrupted by some unexpected—and wild—spectators: several deer dashed across the course and collided with runners at the start of the 5K.
The incident happened on Thursday morning, when four deer barrelled through the crowd. While the first two managed to weave through the runners unscathed, the last two weren’t as lucky, crashing directly into participants and injuring three.
According to local reports, two runners suffered minor injuries, while a third was taken to hospital for further care. Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) stationed at the start line responded quickly to the incident.
Encounters with deer are not unheard of in remote cross-country or trail running, but such incidents are rare in road races. The Watertown YMCA Turkey Day Run, which draws families and recreational runners from the St. Lawerence area, became the unlikely setting for this wildlife collision.
According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the timing of the incident aligns with peak deer mating season (known as the rut), which runs through October and November in upstate New York. During this time, deer activity increases significantly, especially near roads. Watertown has one of the highest deer populations in the state.
Despite the injuries, the race continued, with most participants getting in their Thanksgiving tradition and having a turkey trot tale they will never forget.
