This was submitted by the Andover/North Andover YMCA.

On Thursday, Nov. 22 athletes from the Merrimack Valley will gather at the starting line for the 25^th annual Feaster Five.

The Feaster Five is a much-loved Thanksgiving morning family tradition. It’s an event for participants of all levels: world-class athletes, runners, joggers and walkers. Strollers, wheelchairs and family pets are also welcome and encouraged to join in the fun.

This year, Feaster Five participants will have the opportunity to help raise funds for the Andover/North Andover Expansion Project, and the Y is counting on the community to help spread the word and increase participation. By expanding the YMCA, members will have a better space to stay active and healthy within the community.

Ally Cooper, a first time Feaster Five runner, couldn’t be more excited for race day. Along with her husband and three children, she’s been a member of the Andover/North Andover YMCA for three years, and heard about the race from one of the Y’s fitness instructors.

“I set a personal goal last year to become a runner and have been training for the Feaster Five for a few months now,” said Cooper. “Every Saturday, the Y holds a running club, a casual training session that is the perfect preparation for the Feaster Five.”