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Benchmark Sponsors Annual Race

Benchmark, Inc. is a Title Sponsor for 21st Annual Return of the Turkey Trot

November 2013 – Benchmark, Inc. was the title sponsor for the 21st Annual Return of the Turkey Trot, held in Marion, Iowa on Saturday, November 16. Benchmark has been the title sponsor of this event for the past 13 years.

The Annual Return of the Turkey Trot hosts a competitive 8K road race along with a family-friendly 4K run/walk. The 4K encourages youth from schools throughout the surrounding communities to lace up their shoes and experience a fun running environment that raises money for a great cause! Each year proceeds from the race go towards the F.L.Y. (Feeding Lunches to Youth) Program sponsored by First United Methodist Church in Marion, Iowa to provide meals for school-aged children throughout the summer months. In 2012, this program provided area youth more than 14,000 meals throughout the summer break. Additionally, Horizons – a Family Service Alliance that focuses on raising the standard of living for the underserved and to increasing the quality of life for those in our community, is a major beneficiary from this event.

In 2013, 841 competitors raced towards an overall prize of Thanksgiving turkeys awarded to the top male and female participant in the 8K, while the top three winners in each age group category were awarded with pumpkin pies donated by individuals throughout the community. Additionally, 1,254 participants completed the 4K course. All participants were rewarded with a pancake breakfast prepared by Horizons and their volunteers, as well as post-race snacks donated by area businesses.

After all the final numbers were tallied, the F.L.Y. program was presented with a check for $2,800, while $28,000 was gifted to Horizons.

“This is a tremendous community event that we are proud to be a part of,” commented Steve Nelson, Vice President at Benchmark, Inc. “It has been remarkable watching the event grow throughout the past several years. Both the F.L.Y. program and Horizons do an incredible amount of good throughout our community, and this race is a terrific event that helps raise awareness for a couple of very deserving organizations.”

Turkey Trot race director, Pat Quinn, added “We are very appreciative of Benchmark’s long-time commitment to the race. Not only do they provide monetary assistance, but members of their firm donate pumpkin pies, assist with race registration, provide course assistance, and more. It has been a terrific relationship, and we all take great pride in providing these two worthy organizations with the financial support that is as a result of the time and talents of so many dedicated volunteers who support the event.”

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