Submitted photo Participants competing in the 14th annual Barbour County Health Association Turkey Trot prepare for the start of the 5K Walk/Run in Belington. More than 150 came out for the event that raised more than $5,000 for hunger relief in Barbour County.

BELINGTON – More than 150 took part in the Barbour County Health Association’s annual Turkey Trot 5K Walk/Run that supports local hunger relief in Barbour County.

The 14th annual event saw an increase of close to 70 competitors from a year ago, and raised more than $5,000. Funds raised at the Turkey Trot go directly to the Heart & Hand House Food Pantry in the Philippi and the Belington Presbyterian Church’s Thanksgiving Day meal program, which provides more than 400 meals each holiday.

“Everywhere you look, families are working hard to make ends meet,” said Eric Ruf, Chief Executive Officer of Barbour County Health Association. “It means a lot to see so many people come together, not only to focus on health and wellness, but to lend a hand to neighbors who might be having a tough year.”

Donations of 274 non-perishable food items were also collected during the event.

Scott Nesland (18:46) was the overall winner on the men’s side, while Heidi Hozie (24:17) captured first place in the women’s division.

“Wellness isn’t just about check-ups or running during the Turkey Trot,” said Kim Bolton, Barbour County Health Association Wellness Center Director. “It’s about caring for one another. This event is proof that this community shows up to lift each other up.”

The other top finishers in each age group included: Under 10 Girls, Kinsley Ricottilli, 27:27; 11-14 boys, Colton Mullenax, 26:15; 11-14 girls, Calianna Wilfong, 35:28; 15-19 boys, Ethan Neal, 30:30; 20-29 women, Destiny Deleon, 35:37; 30-39 male, Thomas Hoxie, 25:22; 30-39 women, Mikayla Edwards, 39:14; 40-49 male, Ben Shaffer, 23:57; 40-49 female, Lori Chenoweth, 29:53; 50-59 male, Michael Polomski, 26:35; 50-59 female, Jeanine Zurbach, 29:57; 60-69 male, Wesley Elmore, 24:31; 60-69 female, Leann Lesser, 32:49; 70 and older male, Paul Foy, 31:50; and 70 and older female, Mary Lind, 46:25.

The 15th annual Turkey Trot is already pencilled in for Nov. 7, 2026. For more information on the Belington Wellness Center, call 304-823-1800 or visit the Center’s Facebook page.