The 2020 Peachtree Road Race is the world’s largest 10K race and is normally scheduled for July 4th each year. However, the raging Coronavirus pandemic forced organizers to move the race to Thanksgiving Day. As cases continue to rise in the state of Georgia, the Atlanta Track Club decided it was best to transition the race to a wholly virtual format.
“Atlanta Track Club will deliver a virtual experience worthy of the Peachtree name to ensure that runners and walkers feel the community, camaraderie and competition of the world’s largest 10K,” said Rich Kenah, executive director of the Atlanta Track Club and Peachtree race director, in a release. “As coronavirus has spiked in recent weeks here in Georgia, we recognize that this decision is the best and only responsible way forward.”
Runners can attempt to reach their personal bests, anywhere in the world between 12:00 AM and 11:59 PM. Also, the Peachtree Road Race finisher’s shirt will be unveiled prior to race day. There be no expo this year, and all race packets will be mailed.
“So rather than cancel, we decided to invest our resources, our time, our staff in delivering 40,000- 50,000 packages to people and the technology that will deliver that authentic Peachtree experience,” Kenah said.
According to the Atlanta Track Club, an app will be available soon where participants can track their time, upload GPS-driven results and measure their performances against other participants, listen to the sounds of the Peachtree and share their race on social media. All participants will also receive access to a complimentary 10-week Peachtree training plan.
The remaining spots in the Peachtree Road Race will be filled by the Atlanta Track Club on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration will open Aug. 31 and remain open until the event sells out at its 60,000-person capacity. The junior race for participants aged 14 and under will also be held virtually.
