A Long Way to Piedmont Park

Thousands of Miles to Race the Peachtree

Atlanta residents know the Northside Hospital Peachtree Road Race is a one-of-a-kind event. Each year, the event also draws runners from all 50 states and around the world. In 2025, more than 100 international participants representing 27 countries, traveled to Atlanta to take part in the world's largest 10K.

Here's what three 2025 participants had to say about why they made the trip.

Marjorie Kossoff

Sydney, Australia

~9,200 miles

Marjorie first ran the Peachtree in 1980 with her 10-year-old son while living in Atlanta. While life took her to Sydney, she came back to Atlanta regularly to visit her son and his growing family.

"In 2012, I was going to be in Atlanta for July 4, and my son suggested we run the Peachtree for old time's sake," she said. "I was 65 and hadn't been running, but I purchased a Jeff Galloway training app and decided to give it a go."

The 2012 race marked a turning point. . She kept progressing with her training through programs from Atlanta's legendary coach, Jeff Galloway, and completed her very first marathon at age 70, with many in-person and virtual Peachtrees along the way.

Now, the race is a way for Marjorie to connect and reflect with her family. "Last year, my son and I decided to walk the Peachtree together, along with his 21-year-old daughter." she said. "We relived the memories, and it was ultimately the most special Peachtree of my life."

Lamont Marshall

Devonshire Parish, Bermuda

~1,140 miles

As a master's (age 40+) runner, Lamont travels from his home in Bermuda across the international racing circuit to compete. Lamont won the master's race last year in 32:23 (5:13 minutes/mile).

"Being in Atlanta during July 4 weekend, with Peachtree, the Braves, and the Dream — it's huge and exciting," Lamont says. "I went straight from the airport to a Braves game, and I was able to golf at Smoke Rise and Chastain after the race."

But the main draw for Lamont? The chance to compete against the biggest and best field. "Everyone knows the Peachtree. It's the world's largest 10K and the best show up," he says. "The Peachtree is the premier place to compete and be a part of that atmosphere."

Ellie Cash

Anchorage, Alaska

~3,400 miles

Ellie grew up in Georgia, but moved to Anchorage in 2021 after getting her master's in education. Although familiar with the Peachtree, she initially believed it was only for elite runners. She explains: "My dad convinced me and signed me up for the first time in 2022, even though I didn't think it was a race for people like me. It was cool to have that perception changed."

Now, the inclusivity is Ellie's favorite part of the race. "What's special about the Peachtree is the crowd, both runners and spectators. Whether you're walking or running, you deserve to have someone cheering you on every step of the way," she says.

Running the Peachtree each year has grown Ellie's confidence in herself as a runner, and inspired her to impart that to others. "I didn't run cross country or track when I was a middle schooler, but now I coach those teams at the school where I teach," she says. "Running and my experiences at the Peachtree have empowered me to feel like I can give my student-athletes advice and help them grow."