Atlanta’s iconic Fourth of July tradition, the AJC Peachtree Road Race, once again brought the city together for the world’s largest 10K on July 4, 2025. Marking its 56th running, this celebrated event drew about 52,000 participants who raced along a 6.2-mile route from Lenox Square in Buckhead to Piedmont Park in Midtown. The day was filled with thrilling competition, community spirit, and a festive atmosphere that honored Atlanta’s pride and resilience.
The race began bright and early with the elite wheelchair division kicking off at 6:12 a.m., setting a competitive tone that would carry through the morning. Daniel Romanchuk, a Paralympic athlete and dominant force in wheelchair racing, secured his eighth consecutive victory in the men’s elite wheelchair race with an unofficial time of 18 minutes and 36 seconds. In the women’s wheelchair division, Susannah Scaroni continued her remarkable streak by winning her fourth straight title (fifth overall) with an unofficial time of 22 minutes and 5 seconds. Their repeated successes have solidified their legendary status in the Peachtree’s rich history.
Following the wheelchair races, the women’s elite runners took to the streets at 6:43 a.m., with a star-studded field that included three-time Olympic medalist and two-time Boston Marathon champion Hellen Obiri. Obiri, competing in the Peachtree for the first time, surged ahead in the final stretch to claim the women’s elite title with an unofficial time of 31 minutes and 29 seconds. Her victory underscored her status as one of the world’s premier long-distance runners.
Shortly after, the men’s elite race commenced at 6:50 a.m., featuring a competitive field highlighted by former Arkansas Razorbacks standout Patrick Kiprop. Kiprop took an early gamble by sprinting ahead to build a lead, a strategy that paid off as he maintained his position to the finish line, winning with an unofficial time of 27 minutes and 35 seconds. Kiprop’s performance was a testament to his tactical savvy and endurance, adding another prestigious win to his impressive collegiate and professional resume.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, a familiar face at the event, expressed his enthusiasm before the race began. "I love running in the Peachtree Road Race. I don't run on the regular - I don't run during the week. I just go to the gym and do a regular workout. But the Peachtree Road Race is different," he said. "It's about us doing something today - 52,000 people running, jogging and walking from the iconic Lenox Mall to the iconic Piedmont Park. You gotta know that that's an Atlanta tradition, so it's important for me to be a part of that." His words captured the communal spirit that defines the Peachtree Road Race.
The race’s start times were adjusted this year, beginning 10 minutes earlier than usual to help participants cope with the summer heat. Temperatures started around 74 degrees Fahrenheit and climbed into the 80s, accompanied by humid conditions. Race organizers monitored weather conditions closely, starting the day under Code Yellow, signaling caution due to heat. To keep runners safe and comfortable, multiple cooling stations and water sprayers were strategically placed along the course, with water stations available approximately every mile.
High school athletes also shined during the event, with Bailey Brackett from Rabun Gap High School winning the women’s high school division and Riley Comstock from Harrison High School taking the men’s high school crown. Their victories highlighted the race’s role in nurturing young talent and fostering a lifelong passion for running.
One of the race’s most anticipated traditions is the unveiling of the official Peachtree Road Race T-shirt, a coveted memento only available to those who complete the course. This year’s design, titled "Atlanta Runs Deep," was created by local artist Russ Vann and features the iconic peach with a road running through it, symbolizing the many people who make the race possible each year. The design was revealed after the first runner crossed the finish line, continuing a beloved custom that adds to the event’s festive atmosphere.
Road closures were extensive to accommodate the massive event, with Peachtree Road between Lenox Road and Lenox Parkway closed from July 2 at 2 a.m. until July 4 at 10 a.m. A rolling reopening began at 9:30 a.m. on race day, finishing no earlier than 11 a.m. Additional closures affected numerous streets in Buckhead and the Midtown finish area, including 10th Street from Charles Allen to Monroe Drive, which was closed from June 30 through July 5. These measures ensured the safety of runners and spectators while allowing the city to celebrate in full.
Public transportation also adapted to support the influx of participants and fans. MARTA rail service started early at 4 a.m., with shuttle buses running between Lindbergh Center Station and Lenox Road from 5 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. The Gold Line was recommended as the best route to reach the starting area, while Midtown Station served as the preferred post-race departure point. The Atlanta Streetcar operated from 8:15 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., and designated ride-share drop-off spots were established to ease traffic congestion.
As the race wrapped up, crews began removing road barriers by 9:30 a.m., signaling the conclusion of one of Atlanta’s most cherished annual events. The Peachtree Road Race continues to be a vibrant celebration of athleticism, community, and city pride, uniting runners of all levels and backgrounds in a shared pursuit of excellence and joy.
With the 56th running now in the books, anticipation already builds for next year’s event, promising more memorable moments and inspiring performances along Peachtree Road.
