2026 JPJ Memorial 1-mile Turkey Trot
About the race
The JPJ Memorial Turkey Trot is a timed 1-mile run/walk on Thanksgiving morning through Moncus Park, held in memory of JeanPaul Judice. Its mission is to continue spreading JeanPaul's unconditional love and desire to help those in need.
The race partners with Catholic Charities of Acadiana to raise money for St. Joseph Diner, which has served meals to those experiencing hunger and food insecurity since 1983.
JeanPaul lived the road less traveled. He noticed the daily beauty of sunrises and sunsets with his brothers, and he chose a life where love and happiness filled his heart. Anyone who met him was impacted by his compassionate ear and kind words. He believed his message of loving our world began with family and friends, and he hoped change would ripple outward from there. He knew every person mattered and loved them unconditionally.
Courses & distances
2026 JPJ Memorial 1-mile Turkey Trot
Distance: 1 Mile
Starts: Thu, Nov 26 · 9:00 AM
Event Date: Thursday November 26, 2026
Location: Moncus Park
Start Time: 9:00am CST
End Time: 11:00am CST
Registration Fees:
$25 through 9/31
$30 10/1 through 11/27
$40 RACE DAY REGISTRATION
Online registration will close Wednesday, November 25 at 6pm for timing purposes.
***Register by end of day November 1 to guarantee your race swag.
Each registration includes a 2026 Race Beanie (if registered by Nov. 1st) as well as cinnamon rolls by Bouki’s Baker and refreshments from our sponsors.
Packet pick up will be on Wednesday, November 25th from 1pm-5pm at Corner Bar 3103 Johnston St. Lafayette LA 70503.
Race day parking will be available at Reds. Use the gate to enter Moncus Park.
The race will begin promptly at 9:00.
Awards to follow.
This event will occur rain or shine. We reserve the right to cancel in extreme circumstances. In that event, there will be no refunds; rather, your entry fee will be used as a donation to St. Joseph Diner.
Stroller and start rules
- Strollers are welcome.
- Please start at the back of the pack to ensure the safety of all runners.
The course
Race overview
This race is a chance to come together on Thanksgiving to show gratitude with your community. Bring your family and friends for a run, walk, trot or waddle before your Thanksgiving Feast. All stages of runners and walkers are welcome.
- The race is timed.
- Prizes are awarded to the top three males and top three females.
- Top three males and females receive a custom Turkey cookie medal made by Bouki's Baker.
Location
City insight: Lafayette
Lafayette is a city in Louisiana, USA, and the parish seat of Lafayette Parish, located along the Vermilion River. It is the state's fourth-most populous city. Summers are hot, humid and wet, so the cooler months from late autumn to early spring are the best seasons to race.
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