Margaret Lunsford
Quote: "My birthday is July third, so each year I not only celebrate the country's birthday, but mine as well."
Occupation: Retired educator, currently an H&R Block tax advisor
Age: 60
Residence: Avondale Estates
Number of Peachtrees: 28
Q: Why do you run?
A: Running the Peachtree is a celebration of life tradition I began in 1982. I have only missed one year, when I went to New York in 1987 to celebrate the Statue of Liberty's 100th.
Q: Why did you start running?
A: I started running in 1982 when a guy broke up with me and running helped me get through it.
Q: What do you remember about your first Peachtree?
A: (I) just remember being very nervous and amazed that I finished it and got my shirt.
Q: What is your favorite story?
A: It's more of an event than a race. There are people walking and running. Anyone who wants to do it should. Sometimes I mention the year I had breast cancer. I (walked) the Peachtree the day before my last radiation treatment. It was definitely a celebration after surgery, chemo and 32 days of radiation.
Q: What is your favorite tradition?
A: I meet up with a group of friends before the race. Some of us do the race together and others regroup at the end in Piedmont Park. My husband picks us up in his pickup and we head to R. Thomas restaurant for breakfast. I do stop to see my husband and dog at the two-mile mark.
Q: What is your favorite race T-shirt?
A: No favorite. I love the ones that have peaches and the date, and the ones that use red, white and blue.
Q: Do you run alone or in a pack?
A: Usually with another friend.
Q: What do you like about the race?
A: The Fourth of July tradition and festive atmosphere, the people along the way, the music and just running down Peachtree.
Q: Would you make any changes?
A: A way to be able to sign up with friends to get the same wave.
