AJC Peachtree Road Race Tips – Atlanta Track Club – AJC Peachtree Road Race- July 4, 2011

Whether you're running the AJC Peachtree Road Race for the first time or the fortieth time, here are some helpful tips from the Atlanta Track Club to help you conquer the heat and humidity and make the most out of your Peachtree experience.  

• Hydrate before, during and after the event.  Atlanta is hot and humid on the Fourth of July, so be sure to hydrate before, during and after the race.
• Take MARTA and arrive early.  With 55,000 people running the race, taking MARTA to the start is the way to go.  Plan on arriving one hour prior to your start wave’s start time.
• Don’t forget your timing tag.  Be sure to take your timing tag off your race number and attach it to your shoe.  You must cross over the start line to activate your timing tag.
• Pace yourself and don’t be afraid to slow down or walk.  The first three miles of the race are a gradual downhill, so it’s important to pace yourself.  Plus, a hot, humid day is not the best time to be trying for a personal best, so slow down, and enjoy the event. 
• Take advantage of the water stops and sprays along the course.  Water and POWERade stops are located along the course at miles one through five to help runners and walkers stay hydrated during the race.  Runners can also keep cool on the course by running through the four to five water sprays along the way.
• Be aware of the warning signs of heatstroke.  If you experience any of the symptoms of heatstroke including, headache, dizziness, chills, nausea, loss of orientation, excess thirst or excess fatigue stop running and seek medical attention immediately.
• Rehydrate after the race.  There will be plenty of Crystal Springs water and POWERade in the finish area, and you can refuel with post-race snacks courtesy of Publix.
• Establish a meeting area for family and friends.  The finish area in Piedmont Park gets crowded, so it’s important to plan ahead on where you will meet up with family and friends.  A family meeting area will be located in Piedmont Park near the Park Tavern where alphabetically arranged balloons will help you establish a good area to meet up with people.