ATLANTA — March 13, 2024 — In a groundbreaking initiative to make the Microsoft Peachtree Junior available to any child wishing to participate, Microsoft has agreed to cover the cost of entries for the 2024 event, Atlanta Track Club announced today.
"At Atlanta Track Club we are focused on making running and walking as well as track and field and cross country accessible to all" said Rich Kenah, CEO. "Cost can be a barrier for some, which is why our Kilometer Kids program is free to all. We - and the children of Atlanta - thank Microsoft for joining us in our mission and taking it one step further at Peachtree Junior."
Registration for the 2024 Microsoft Peachtree Junior is available here.
In 2022, Microsoft became the Official Technology Partner of Atlanta Track Club, focusing on youth programs and events, and began integrating STEM activities into the Club's free-to-all Kilometer Kids program as well as the Peachtree Health & Fitness Expo presented by Publix and the Microsoft Peachtree Junior.
At Peachtree Junior, participants have had the opportunity to code a running-themed video game, use a micro:bit device to create their own personal step counters, and develop an arcade game starring Atlanta Track Club mascot Pete the Peach. STEM activities will again be offered this year, at both the race and Expo.
This is the first time that Microsoft has ever underwritten the entire cost of an event.
"We've been teaming up with Atlanta Track Club and their Kilometer Kids program for the past few years to foster opportunities for youth to learn and grow through technology and physical activity," said Monica Robbins, Director of Sports Partnerships at Microsoft. "The positive impact we have seen through the program has made us passionate about making running and STEM fun and accessible to every curious kid, so we're thrilled to sponsor all kids to run free at this year's Peachtree Junior."
The Microsoft Peachtree Junior will be held on July 3, with participants crossing the same 10th Street finish line at Piedmont Park that will be used for the 55th Running of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Peachtree Road Race the next day. The Junior features a series of Mile races for children ages 6-14, a Dash for children 6 and under, and a heptathlon in the Track & Field Zone offering the chance for kids to try out the shot put, mini-hurdles, standing broad jump and more.
A medal and T-shirt will be guaranteed to the first 3,000 registrants.