Long Islanders laced up their running shoes for a good cause this Thanksgiving.

Nearly 7,000 people took part in the 45th annual Turkey Trot in Garden City.

The event features three races, the Challenger Division Race, a 1.4 mile fun run, and a challenging 5 mile race.

And it's all to help Long Islanders. "It's the biggest charity race on Long Island -- we have three beneficiaries, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, MDA and The INN (Interfaith Nutrition Network). So, all these guys are out here with their family and friends, we raise a ton of money for charity and everyone just has a great time," says Ken Aneser, Garden City Turkey Trot Race Director.

This year, the race also collected items for a food and sneaker drive.