It’s that time of year again. The Turkey Chase is back, and there’s only nine days left to register.

The event, now in its 29^th year, is the largest race in Montgomery County and a major charity event for the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rotary Club and the Bethesda-Chevy Chase YMCA. Past events have raised well over $100,000 for programs supported by the Rotary and scholarships and youth programs at the Y.

For many in Bethesda, it’s a Thanksgiving Day tradition.

The race starts bright and early on Thanksgiving morning, and thousands of runners participate yearly and burn off a few calories in anticipation of their holiday feast. With a 10K road race, a two-mile run/walk, and a 50-meter “Tot Trot,” everyone in the family can participate. Here’s the schedule for this year:

• 10K race -- 8:35 a.m.
• Two-mile run/walk – 8:50 a.m.
• Tot Trot 50-meter race – 9:35 a.m.

More details on race routes, registration and fees are available at the race’s website. Registration is also available the day of the event. When you sign up, be sure to cast a vote for your favorite local public or private school. The winning public school will receive $1,000, and the winning private school will receive $500.

Last years’ “Principal’s Prize” winners were Walter Johnson High School and the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School. Walter Johnson is once again in the lead so far, with 452 votes as of Monday. The French International School was in the lead for the private school category.

Is Turkey Chase a Thanksgiving Day tradition in your family? Tell us in the comments.