Why I run the Peachtree: Jennifer Holbrook

Age: 30

Resident: Kennesaw

Number of Peachtrees: Four

Why do I run? As little girls, my sister and I were taken to the six-mile marker in Piedmont Park to watch our father, Tom McCollum, and his best friend, Barry Halligan, run the race. Since Barry often had a seeded number, he finished early enough that I was able to hold his T-shirt up to encourage the general masses as they neared the finish line. This tradition went on for almost 20 years. Barry died a few weeks ago after colon cancer ravaged his body. This year our whole family is running in Barry's memory and honor.

Q: Why did you start running?

A: My father has been an avid runner since before I was born. I've been running since as early as I can remember. I wouldn't know how to have a life that didn't include running.

Q: When was your first Peachtree?

A: My first Peachtree was so early in my life that I don't remember it. The first time I ran was in 1998 just to prove to my dad that I could do it. I was so proud I don't think I took my T-shirt off for a solid week.

Q: What is your favorite story?

A: Since I've always attended or ran since I can remember, it's in my blood. I get Peachtree fever from the time registration is announced to when I finally take my T-shirt off. Every year is a story in and of itself.

Q: What is your favorite race T-shirt?

A: The peach colored one from 1998. It was my first.

Q: Do you run alone or in a pack?

A: In a pack with my family.

Q: What do you like about the race?

A: Literally, the whole thing. The AJC Peachtree is a spectacle and you have to take time to laugh at the costumes, receive a blessing from the priest at Mile 2, get the freebies that businesses are handing out along the way, shout out "T-shirt, cold beer," and salute the Marines that pass by in uniform in stride. It's an event to be experienced from the expo to the slimy MARTA ride back. I love every minute of it.

Q: Would you make any changes?

A: I used to be upset about the finish line but since it has moved back to Piedmont Park, I'm good. I would like, however, to see more of a celebration at the end, a little more congratulatory fanfare with a band or concert, after-party or maybe a Jumbotron with a live feed so you can watch yourself coming across the finish line.

Q: Do you have a favorite spot along the course?

A: Definitely the turn onto 10th Street. It's the "sprint moment," when you know that you've made it and there's nothing stopping you from sprinting to your T-shirt.

Q: Do you have any superstitions you stick to before the race?

A: Yes, we have to ride MARTA to the race and we have to eat Krispy Kreme donuts and bananas for breakfast.

-- Doug Roberson