The AJC Peachtree Road Race is a great way to celebrate the Fourth of July in Atlanta. However, it is a busy event with a lot going on. Here is everything you should know before the event begins.
For everyone:
The race starts earlier this year. The race will begin 30 minutes earlier this year. Wheelchair racers go at 6:27 a.m. The main race begins at 7 a.m.
You can see coverage of it on Channel 2 Action News and online. The race begins during WSB-TV's morning show. The beginning and end of the race will be streamed on wsbtv.com. They may stream the whole race online via a chopper feed, but that is not certain.
For people watching the race in person:
There will be security checkpoints. This is the second year there will be checkpoints, according to Rich Kenah, executive director of the Atlanta Track Club, who said they are in line with "best practices" of races around the world.
The checkpoints will be at the Piedmont Park finish line and several points along the route. Anything fans are carrying in a bag before the checkpoints must be searched and put in a clear plastic bag. Spectators are encouraged to bring their items in clear bags or not to bring a bag. This applies to runners and people watching.
The Atlanta Police Department will provide security for the event with a number of officers on the streets.
It might be a bit rainy. Please be careful. The forecast as of this writing is calling for isolated showers. However,
“Tomorrow morning, 6 a.m., just before the start of the race, a couple of showers around,” Channel 2 meteorologist Brian Monahan said. “I can’t rule out a isolated shower for the Peachtree tomorrow morning, but overall that rain chance is pretty low. As we head through your July 4 afternoon, some isolated showers and storms developing.”
Temperatures are expected to be in the upper 80s, so participants will still need to be mindful of heat.
The AJC has a guide for preparing to race in hot weather. Avoid alcohol and coffee. Drink water. Run more slowly during the race, and don't forget that runners feel 20 degrees warmer than the outside temperature because of their physical activity.
There are some recommended viewing spots. For those interested in seeing the race in person, the Atlanta Track Club has a list of good places.
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