ORANGE — A Ralph C. Mahar Regional School alumnus is planning a Thanksgiving-themed footrace on Nov. 9, with all proceeds going to the Orange Food Pantry.

Jacob Tenney, a 2021 graduate, said the first Mahar Turkey Trot will consist of a 5-kilometer (or 3.1-mile) loop near the school between 9 a.m. and noon. Participants are welcome to walk or run the course.

“It’s a great cause,” Tenney said, adding that he hopes the event becomes an annual tradition. “That’s the plan.”

He said the $15 entry fees and money from sponsors will go directly to the food pantry, after expenses. The 21-year-old, a Mahar Key Club member when he attended the school, is a senior at Springfield College, where he devised a turkey trot community event as part of an assignment.

“I thought it made sense to really pursue it,” Tenney said.

Pennie Smith, a Mahar Key Club advisor since 1976, said she jumped at the chance to lend a hand for the event.

“I was delighted and very pleased to help him. He was a Key Club member and it’s always nice to see young people willing to come back to their community and give back to their community,” she said. “I think it’s a very interesting idea. I don’t believe that one has existed in the town of Orange.”

Tenney mentioned a professional timing company, Tri-State Timing, will be on site to clock each participant’s time.

People can register for the turkey trot at tinyurl.com/OrangeTurkeyTrot. Tenney, who is also receiving help from his Boston-based sister, Tiffany, also maintains a Facebook page for the event.

Reach Domenic Poli at: dpoli@recorder.com or 413-930-4120.