The annual Bo Tkach Foundation Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk, normally held on Thanksgiving morning in Palmerton, has been canceled this year due to the uncertainty of the COVID-19 virus.

Over 878 runners/walkers registered in 2019 for the event, making it the largest race in the foundation’s history, so the board decided to cancel this year’s event in the interest and safety of others.

The organization released a statement Friday saying it just didn’t want to take the chance with all of the uncertainty to put 800 people in proximity to each other.

“The organization regrets the decision and is looking forward to resuming the event in 2021. The board thanks everyone for their support and understanding,” the statement said.

Its mission is to create awareness for obsessive compulsive disorder and other mental health issues while providing essential funding for youth athletic programs, scholarships and otherwise inaccessible individual mental health screening and treatment.