2 The Peachtree Road Race has been held on the 4th of July every year since 1970. It has become a beloved tradition for many people in Atlanta and beyond. The race starts near Lenox Square Mall and finishes in Piedmont Park, with runners passing by some of Atlanta’s iconic landmarks along the way, such as the Fox Theatre and the Margaret Mitchell House. The festive atmosphere of the holiday adds to the excitement of the race, with runners often donning patriotic costumes and spectators lining the streets to cheer them on.
3 The race also has a rich history that adds to its allure. It was started by the Atlanta Track Club, with the first race consisting of 110 participants. Over the years, it has grown exponentially, becoming not only the largest 10K race in the world but also a prestigious event that attracts top runners from around the globe. The race has seen its fair share of memorable moments, such as in 1972 when wheelchair racer Bob Hall crossed the finish line, becoming the first person to complete the race in a wheelchair. In 1984, the race also served as the women’s 10K Olympic Trials, adding to its significance in the running community.
4 However, what truly sets the Peachtree Road Race apart from other road races is its level of competition. With its status as a Peachtree Road Race qualifer, it attracts elite runners who are vying for the win and the accompanying prize money. These runners are at the top of their game, training rigorously to compete against each other and set new records. The course itself is challenging, with its hilly terrain and sometimes hot and humid weather conditions. Only the fittest and fastest can hope to claim victory in this race.
5 Yet, despite the elite competition, the Peachtree Road Race remains accessible to all. Anyone can participate, from seasoned runners aiming for a personal best, to recreational joggers who simply want to be a part of the excitement. The race offers an inclusive experience, with runners of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities coming together to celebrate the joy of running.
6 The Peachtree Road Race truly is a race like no other. Its unique blend of tradition, history, and fierce competition make it a standout event in the running world. Whether you are a world-class athlete or a casual jogger, participating in this iconic race is an experience that will be remembered for a lifetime.
The Peachtree Road Race: A Race Like No Other
David Matherne
1 A common golfer cannot play in the Masters or British Open with the world’s best-known golfers, nor can the average tennis player play against the world’s best at Wimbledon. No teenager just learning to drive can bank the turns with professional drivers at the Daytona 500. However, in the sport of road racing, common people and novice joggers can lace up and be in the same race as the world-class runners competing to win it all. The Peachtree Road Race in Atlanta, GA is the world’s largest 10K, boasting 55,000 runners who line up for blocks at 7:30am to run down Atlanta’s most famous street. Only a handful, however, really have a legitimate chance to win the prestigious crystal peach and the $15,000 first place prize that comes with it. The Peachtree Road Race is unique as a road race in three distinctive ways: it is run on the 4th of July, it has a rich tradition, and it is the most competitive 10K in the world.
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