The technological side of road racing is on the fast track. Many runners and walkers want data – and the more, the better
The AJC Peachtree Road Race has changed a lot over the past 10 years, both in look and in execution. In fact, it wasn’t until 2009 that every single participant of the world’s largest 10K was electronically chip-timed. This year, Atlanta Track Club is offering a 5K split time for each participant in addition to the finish time, and friends and family can receive updates on their runner’s progress in multiple ways.
» RELATED: How to start in the best wave for the AJC Peachtree Road Race July 4
The Club provided a 5K split as a test during the 2016 AJC Peachtree Road Race, and will offer this information officially this year. Each participant will be able to sign up for their race updates to be sent out automatically via Facebook and Twitter, and friends and family members will be able to sign up for social media or text message updates as well.
“We’re proud to be able to offer tracking options for the AJC Peachtree Road Race,” says Paula Beebe, manager of registration and timing for Atlanta Track Club. “There is a lot of excitement around running the largest road race in the country, and we want our participants to be able to easily share their performances with their friends and family.”
» RELATED: 5 tips on training for the AJC Peachtree Road Race
Links to register for Facebook, Twitter and text message updates will be available in upcoming participant emails and in the participant instructions for the event.
Technology Timeline
2009: First year every participant is electronically timed
2010: First year start waves are assigned by verified performance; official race number transfer system implemented
2011: Registration switches to an online lottery application
2016: 5K split time test performed
2017: 5K split times officially offered for participants
Atlanta Track Club is a non-profit organization with a mission of creating a healthy and active Atlanta through running and walking. Among its more than 30 annual events and programs is the AJC Peachtree Road Race, one of Atlanta’s most treasured events. Since 1976, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has been the title sponsor of the race, which is the world’s largest 10K with 60,000 participants each year.
About the Author
