Some of the world’s top track and field athletes will be among those cheering on participants of the 2015 Peachtree Junior. After crossing the finish line, young runners will be able to sample other track and field disciplines under the hands-on guidance of these same local Olympic medalists.
A post-race festival will allow Peachtree Junior participants to sample other track and field events including hurdles, long jump, shot put and high jump. Activities with these athletes will take place in the Piedmont Park Active Oval after children are reunited with their guardians.
“By introducing children to all disciplines of the sport – running, jumping and throwing – at an early age, we hope to keep kids engaged and involved in track and field for many years to come,” said Rich Kenah, Atlanta Track Club’s executive director. “Having local Olympic stars encourage and coach our Peachtree Junior participants will inspire them to work towards excellence of their own.”
Among the Olympic athletes expected at Peachtree Junior, a family-friendly event that allows kids to experience the fun of the AJC Peachtree Road Race, are:
- Dwight Phillips, the 2004 Olympic gold medalist and four-time World Champion in the long jump. Phillips is a life-long resident of the Atlanta area.
- Terrence Trammell, a two-time Olympic silver medalist and two-time World Indoor Champion in the 110-meter hurdles. Trammell, an Atlanta native, still lives and trains here.
The 29th Peachtree Junior will be held on May 16 at 8:30 a.m. in Piedmont Park. For the first time, the event will feature three distances: A 3K (ages 7-14), a 1/2K (ages 5-9) and a 50m Dash (ages 6 and under). Participants can also take part in the Peachtree Junior Challenge, which awards scholarships to the top four schools or youth running organizations that sign up the most kids for the race. For more information, visit atlantatrackclub.org.
About Atlanta Track Club
Atlanta Track Club is a nonprofit committed to creating an active and healthy Atlanta. Through running and walking, Atlanta Track Club motivates, inspires and engages the community to enjoy a healthier lifestyle. With more than 21,000 members, Atlanta Track Club is the second largest running organization in the United States. In addition to the AJC Peachtree Road Race (peachtreeroadrace.org) – the largest 10K running event in the world, the Atlanta 10 Miler and Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon, Atlanta Track Club directs more than 30 events per year. Through the support of its members and volunteers, Atlanta Track Club also maintains a number of community initiatives including organizing and promoting the Kilometer Kids youth running program to metro Atlanta youth, honoring high school cross country and track and field athletes through Atlanta Track Club's All-Metro Banquets and supporting the Grady Bicycle EMT program. For more information on Atlanta Track Club, visit atlantatrackclub.org.
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