On a spirited Independence Day morning in Atlanta, the 56th edition of the AJC Peachtree 10K Road Race unfolded with the kind of drama and athletic excellence that keeps this event a cornerstone of July 4th celebrations. The race, a cherished tradition drawing runners from across the globe, showcased stunning performances and a heartwarming tribute to the city’s vibrant running community.
Kenya’s Hellen Obiri, a two-time Boston Marathon champion, made a memorable debut at Peachtree by clinching the women’s title in a nail-biting finish. Clocking in at 31:29, Obiri surged in the final stretch to edge out 19-year-old Ethiopian prodigy Senayet Getachew by a mere second. Getachew finished with an impressive 31:30, while fellow Ethiopian Gela Hambese Degefa secured third place in 31:38. Obiri’s victory added to her already stellar 2025 season, having recently triumphed at the Mastercard New York Mini 10K with a swift 30:44.
The women’s race was marked by a blistering pace from the outset. American Susanna Sullivan took an early lead, setting a fast tempo that tested the field. Yet, Obiri, known for her tactical prowess and finishing kick, bided her time before unleashing a powerful sprint that ultimately secured her the win. Her status as the 2023 and 2024 Boston Marathon champion made her the clear favorite, and she lived up to expectations with a performance that thrilled spectators and competitors alike.
On the men’s side, Kenyan dominance was undisputed as the podium was swept by runners from the East African nation. University of Arkansas standout Patrick Kiprop, making his Peachtree debut, emerged as the surprise winner with a commanding 27:35 finish. Kiprop made an audacious move early in the race, breaking away from the pack and holding his lead through to the finish line. The battle for second was fiercely contested between Vincent Langat and Patrick Mosin, who both clocked identical times of 27:39, underscoring the depth of talent in this year’s field.
The AJC Peachtree Road Race is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of community and tradition. This spirit was beautifully captured in the official race T-shirt design for 2025, titled “Atlanta Runs Deep.” Created by artist Vann, a Tifton native who has called Atlanta home for 13 years, the design pays homage to the people who make the race possible each year. Vann’s family has deep roots in the event, with his parents participating for over three decades.
Vann’s journey to winning the T-shirt design contest is a testament to perseverance. Since 2018, he has submitted multiple entries, reaching finalist status several times, including twice in 2022 and again in 2024. This year, his vision of a peach and city skyline connected by a road symbolizing the race’s path through Atlanta resonated with judges and the public alike. The design reflects not only the physical journey of the runners but also the camaraderie and citywide connection that the Peachtree Road Race fosters.
The tradition of the Peachtree T-shirt dates back to 1976, evolving from the humble beginnings when runners were compensated with just 15 cents for bus fare. Since 1995, the Atlanta Track Club has invited public submissions and voting, turning the shirt into a coveted symbol of the race. This year, over 100 designs were submitted, with Vann’s artwork standing out among stiff competition. For his winning design, Vann will receive a $5,600 prize, along with the honor of contributing a lasting piece of Atlanta’s sporting heritage.
Rich Kenah, CEO of the Atlanta Track Club, emphasized the unique significance of the Peachtree Road Race and its iconic shirt. “There is only one Peachtree,” he said. “And there is only one shirt. Nothing matches what this race means to the city of Atlanta.” This sentiment encapsulates the enduring impact of the event, which combines elite athleticism, community spirit, and local pride.
The 2025 AJC Peachtree Road Race once again demonstrated why it remains a highlight of the summer running calendar. From Obiri’s thrilling victory to Kiprop’s breakout performance and the heartfelt artistry behind the official T-shirt, the event celebrated the best of competitive sport and community tradition. As runners and fans look ahead, the race continues to symbolize more than just a 10K—it’s a vibrant thread in the fabric of Atlanta’s identity.
