“America’s Fastest Teacher” Named Grand Marshal Of The 49th Annual Alexandria Turkey Trot 

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Named “America’s Fastest Teacher” by Runner’s World magazine, Susanna Sullivan is the Grand Marshal of the 49th Annual Turkey Trot.  A five-time winner of the Alexandria Turkey Trot and a three-time course record holder, Sullivan’s connection to this race runs deep. Her outstanding achievements have solidified her as a celebrated figure throughout the DC Metro area, and her story is one of resilience, dedication, and community spirit.

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In October, Sullivan stunned the running world as the fastest American woman at the Chicago Marathon, finishing seventh overall with an incredible time of 2:21:56. This personal best made her the 10th-fastest American woman in history and capped a triumphant return from a challenging injury that had sidelined her from the 2024 Olympic Trials. Balancing elite-level training with the demands in the classroom as a 6th grade math teacher, Sullivan exemplifies determination — proving that passion and perseverance can coexist with a full-time career.

“As Grand Marshal, Sullivan’s presence at the Alexandria Turkey Trot highlights the race’s deep ties to the community and its celebration of extraordinary local talent,” said Alexandria Turkey Trot race director Brian Danza of DC Road Runners. “Her journey inspires runners of all levels, and her dual role as an educator and elite athlete embodies the spirit of commitment and excellence. The Turkey Trot is honored to recognize Sullivan’s legacy and her contributions to both the sport and the broader DC Metro community.”

    “Susanna’s commitment to her students and her training is such an inspiration,” said Del Ray Business Association President Dr. Lauren Fisher.  “We’re thankful that this world-class athlete has spent so many of her Thanksgiving mornings running with us in support of ALIVE.”

    A Thanksgiving morning tradition, the Alexandria Turkey Trot will take place on Thursday, Nov. 28 at 9 a.m.  This fast, flat, USATF-certified course runs through the heart of Del Ray, and is the Mid-Atlantic’s premiere Turkey Trot, featuring over 5,000 runners, including some of the fastest elite runners on the east coast. The five-mile run/walk goes through the heart of Del Ray, starting and ending at George Washington Middle School. The event is Metro accessible to the Braddock Road Metro Station.  Dogs and strollers are welcome, and have their own starting area.

In the spirit of the holiday, runners and spectators are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items on race day to support ALIVE!, the oldest and largest non-profit in the City of Alexandria dedicated to fighting poverty and hunger.

For complete information on the race and to register, visit www.alexandriaturkeytrot.com.  Due to high registration numbers, early pre-registration is recommended.