HURON — The Huron Chamber & Visitors Bureau and Dakota Provisions are pleased to announce the 9th Annual Huron Turkey Races and 2nd Annual Turkey Days. John Hott, Plant Manager at Dakota Provisions says “the event has been a hit and we have several supporters who come from out of town, so we’re excited to make a weekend out of it again!”
The theme for this year is “Just Kickin’ It.” Soccer enthusiasts and their teams will take to the “field” on May 19 on 3rd Street, between Dakota and Kansas Avenues in downtown Huron. Proceeds raised by this event will go toward paving a walkway at the Pepsi Soccer Complex.
“The area could really use a nice sidewalk where there is currently dirt and gravel,” said Jake Thielbar Chairman of the Huron Soccer Association. “It would be nice to eliminate the mud and uneven path in addition to making the fields and concession stand more accessible for spectators with strollers and wheelchairs.” The estimated cost is around $18,000 for the concrete and labor.
There are several activities that take place at the Pepsi Soccer Complex each year in addition to practice, games and tournaments for Huron Soccer Association including private club rentals and a nationally recognized tournament that brings in nearly 2,000 players and fans.
Just a few of the fun activities already planned include the increasingly popular foot darts game (where you kick Velcro soccer balls towards a 23-foot high inflatable dart board) sponsored by American Bank & Trust and American Trust Insurance, a turkey pot pie eating contest sponsored by G&S Transports with the opportunity to win $500, and a business decorating contest where companies who participate could win $100 in Huron Bucks. “Dakotaland Federal Credit Union is thrilled to be working on a display that will get the community excited about the event,” said Angie Reyna, Consumer Loan Processor for Dakotaland Federal Credit Union, Turkey Races committee member, and Coach for the Huron Soccer Association.
Dakota Provisions will host its traditional golf tournament on Saturday, May 20, for those who sponsor teams at a certain level for the races. There is also a “meet the sponsors” social on Thursday evening and the committee is encouraging local business to get involved too.
How about hosting a turkey scavenger hunt, or giving a prize for a turkey in bowling? Maybe offering a Turkey Days special sale or host a turkey lunch? “We’re thrilled to help promote other fun activities in our community over the weekend and welcome several visitors as well,” said Laurie Shelton, CEO at the Huron Chamber & Visitors Bureau.
“Just Kickin’ It,” takes place on Friday May 19, starting at 5:30pm. Races will be in heat trial format with the popular custom made scooters, which are a little more souped-up this year. The top teams of turkeys (of the human kind) will move on to the final heat. A $1,000 “nest egg” will be awarded to the team who “scores the winning goal.” With a new competitive twist - this is an event that no one should miss!
The cost to sponsor a team is $150 with a two racers per team. Sponsorship packages are also available at various levels from $250-$1,000 with excellent exposure. Pool with a group of friends or have your business represented by entering a team in the race.
With a guaranteed turn out of curious participants, participating businesses is sure to get a bang for its buck through sponsorship. Participants should get their “turkeys” in training this year so they will be in tip top shape come race day. Costumes are encouraged. Join the fun games, the ever popular fowl balls and turkey ribs, drink specials through the Scoreboard Bar & Grill and much more.
Awards will also be given to the team with the most creativity and originality. Costumes and team names are encouraged.
Deadline for registration is Wednesday, May 12. For more information, please call the Huron Chamber at 605-352-0000, email cvb@huronsd.com or visit www.huronsd.com/calendar and click on the event.
