By MATTHEW LINDSEY

WEST POTSDAM -- The 17th Hobble Gobble Prediction Run-Walk, which typically draws around 500 participants and raises about $10,000 each year, takes place Nov. 22 at 11:15 a.m.

“We have about 400 people registered so far this year…when we first started we only had 49,” said event coordinator Derry Loucks.

Participants must register online at northernrunner.org with a $30 registration fee if registered by Nov. 15. Registration ends Nov. 19. There will be no race-day registration.

“This year we have runners from Canada and nine state including Vermont, North Carolina and even as far as Texas and Colorado,” he said.

After registration, runners will fill out a predicted time the day of the race at West Potsdam Bingo Hall, Blanchard Road.

“The predicted run allows people to compete at their own pace and everyone has a chance to win,” he said.

Entertainment will include rock band The Concessionaries, two DJ’s will be on-hand and there will be mascots.

“We will have three or four turkeys in cages and the runners usually get them excited and gobbling,” Loucks said.

An awards ceremony is planned for 1 p.m. with chili, homemade cookies and beverages inside the West Potsdam Bingo Hall.

“The majority of the money will go to the holiday find and all neighborhood centers will receive a portion as well,” Loucks said.

The 12 participants who most closely predict their time will win a turkey and a trophy.

Participants will receive a long-sleeve t-shirt and medal.

Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield is the presenting sponsor of the event and more than 30 other sponsors make the event possible as well, Loucks said.

For more information, call Derry at 265-5791.