MACON, Ga. — The 47th annual Labor Day Road Race drew hundreds of runners to the streets of downtown Macon on Monday morning, with participants competing in both 5K and 10K events.
The family-friendly race, organized by the Macon Tracks Running Club, has become a Central Georgia tradition, attracting runners from across the Southeastern part of the country.
Runners of all ages laced up to tackle the USA Track and Field-certified (USATF) courses, which wound through downtown before finishing at Carolyn Crayton Park.
Among the notable participants were a 95-year-old man running his first-ever race and a younger runner who lost 100 pounds in preparation for the race.
"We're in year 47, and it's really exciting to be here. We have about 1,800 runners, maybe even more with people that just decided to come join us this morning," said Bonnie Hopkins, Vice President of the Macon Tracks Running Club. “It's just a great fun social event, but it's also can be a competitive event, and we have a lot of competition.”
The race kicked off with the 5K starting at Vineville Baptist Church and the 10K beginning further down the road at Run-Fit Sports. Both events serve as qualifiers for the Peachtree Road Race, one of Georgia's most prestigious running events.
For many, the Road Race is about more than just competition. It’s a celebration of fitness and community. Participants ranged from serious runners to casual walkers, and the event welcomed first-time racers, families, and seasoned athletes alike.
"I wanted people to know that God has blessed me all my life, and He’s just taken care of me, and I enjoy doing it," said 95-year-old Robert Breazeal, who has lived in Macon for three decades. “My friend encouraged me to do it. I’m getting old, but I’m staying active.”
Others, like Elizabeth Barr, saw the race as an opportunity to reconnect with the sport.
"I haven’t run in a while. I was resting my knees; so it was nice to just come out, and I had a really fun time," Barr said.
Freddie Mack Jr. said he originally didn’t run at all, but when his teenage son joined track at his school, he decided to start running. Now he runs regularly and attends races like the one this year.
"It was a challenge for myself to connect with other runners out here who share the same passion that I have," Mack said.
The race drew not only runners from Georgia but participants from across the Southeast, some from as far as Florida and Tennessee. The event continues to grow each year, with more than 1,800 people participating in this year’s race.
"It's always been a lot of fun. There's a lot of excitement in the air," said runner Mary Anne Kelley. "It's just exhilarating. I think the overall feeling here is one of excitement."
Key Takeaways
- The 5K and 10K races kicked off at Vineville Baptist Church and Run-Fit Sports. It was 3.1 and 6.2 miles, respectively.
- According to organizers, more than 1,800 runners participated in this year's event.
- The race featured certified courses and served as a Peachtree Road Race qualifier.
The Macon Tracks Running Club hosts several events throughout the year, and organizers say the Labor Day Road Race will continue to be a cherished tradition in Central Georgia.
For those interested in future races, visit the Macon Tracks Running Club website for details.