Dennis Clark
Age: 60
Hometown: Warner Robins
Why do you run the AJC Peachtree Road Race? Last year was my first. I loved being a part of it all and proving to myself that I could do it. That 10K was the first 10K I had run non stop. It is something about making that happen there that was so fulfilling. The entire experience made me want to run again this year.
When and why did you start running? Several years ago, while vacationing in the Atlanta area on the Fourth of July, I told my boys, who were young at the time, that I was going to run the Peachtree one day. They laughed because any zeal I had would wain shortly. Then in December of 2010 I had a mild heart attack. I got serious after that and began to train a month later. I ran my first Peachtree last year and this year one of my sons is running with me.
Tell us about your first AJC Peachtree Road Race: Great experience. So much support from people you didn't know cheering you on. It was a dream come true for me.
How many AJC Peachtree Road Races have you run? One.
What story do you tell friends or family who ask about running the AJC Peachtree Road Race? Mostly what I shared earlier about what motivated me to want to do it and how that dream became a reality. To be a part of something that I never really thought I would be a part of and my family witnessing it at age 59 after a heart attack was very special. By the way, it was all I dreamed it would be and more.
What's a tradition you observe at the AJC Peachtree Road Race? I only have one year of experience. Last year we stayed at Spring Hill Suites, attended the Expo on July 3; ate at Maggiano's the night before (pre-race pasta). I wore my Peachtree T-shirt proudly to the Braves game on July Fourth. Sounds like a great plan for year two with two exceptions: run the Peachtree in less than an hour and Braves win this year.
What's your favorite race T-shirt? Last year's shirt was good but I also like a couple of this year's final four.
Do you run alone or run in a pack? For the most part alone but once a week with a friend.
What do you like about the AJC Peachtree Road Race? The fact that it is on the Fourth of July enhances the feel of patriotism. It is so well organized and you feel a part of something really special. The volunteers are super.
What would you like to see changed with the AJC Peachtree Road Race? Nothing really, except maybe a ride up Cardiac Hill.
How many road races do you run in a given year other than the AJC Peachtree Road Race? 10-11.
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