Ruby Begonia is preparing for the second leg of an important annual tradition.
CUERO, Texas – Ruby Begonia is preparing for the second leg of an important annual tradition. Cuero’s top turkey is taking on Paycheck of Worthington, Minnesota for the ultimate bragging rights of the World’s Turkey Capital.
Saturday, Oct. 11 is the 53rd annual Turkeyfest, marking a milestone of a competition that started between residents of both towns for turkey superiority.
Cuero has a deep history of turkey trotting, first beginning in 1912 with over 10 thousand turkeys marching through major roads to the market for processing and sale.
In 1973, former college roommates who eventually became editors of their local newspapers claimed their respective hometowns were the Turkey Capital of the World.
Every year, Cuero residents prepare for Turkeyfest led by a board of members. They spend a year planning for the annual event, as well as choosing the top turkey of three to take on the name Ruby Begonia and compete against Worthington’s Paycheck.
The first leg is the second week of September as the Turkey race team travels to Minnesota for King Turkey Day before the Worthington travels to Cuero in October for the second leg.
The winner receives the “Tumultuous Triumph” after times from both events are added together.
The 2024 iteration of Ruby took the title, keeping the title of Turkey Capital of the World in Cuero.
Ruby Begonia has catching up to do, looking to earn back one minute and eight seconds after falling behind by that much in Worthington on Sept. 13.
There is some strategy behind turkey racing, handlers must find a way to keep their respective turkeys from being distracted by the crowd without physically redirecting the racer. There is a five second penalty for every time a handler must touch the turkey.
A captain and a coach are also involved in the operation as they help lead their teams to the most effective practices.
The Great Gobbler Gallop is an iconic part of Cuero, with generations of students donning the ‘Gobbler’ name as Cuero High School graduates.
This year’s event is sponsored by Kids Cowboy Cooking At The Chuck Wagon, O&G Rocks, Cuero Lube & Tire, HEB, 5D Tavern, Weber Motor Co./L&R Transportation, and Cuero Pecan House.
The festival will also feature several local and national musical acts, headlined by The Frontmen, Craig Morgan, and Gene Watson.
Weekend passes are on sale until Oct. 4 for $25. Tickets are still available at the gate: Friday, Oct. 10 is $20, Saturday is free until 3 p.m., and $30 afterwards. Sunday admission is always free.