ATLANTA TRACK CLUB ANNOUNCES ENHANCEMENTS TO ATLANTA MARATHON SAFETY AND SECURITY PROCEDURES
Atlanta Track Club announced today that it will implement enhancements to safety and security measures for the Atlanta Marathon events on Sunday, October 27. The enhanced plans will impact the Atlanta Marathon and 10 Miler as well as the 5K and Kids Fun Run presented by American Family Insurance.
“Safety is Atlanta Track Club’s top priority, and we work closely with the City of Atlanta and its agencies to ensure safe, fun events for our participants, volunteers and spectators,” said Sue Payne, Atlanta Track Club interim executive director. “Just as we enhanced our security plans for the 2013 AJC Peachtree Road Race following the Boston Marathon tragedy, we are continuously evaluating our safety and security plans for all our events, including the upcoming Atlanta Marathon.”
The comprehensive safety and security plans include an increased law enforcement presence and an increased number of restricted areas on race day, especially around the start and finish of each event. Additionally, clear bags will be used for gear check for Atlanta Marathon participants. All event participants are asked to do the following:
· Pack light: Leave backpacks and unnecessary items at home. If you don’t need it, don’t bring it.
· See something, say something: If you see something suspicious, contact the nearest police officer or call 911.
· Utilize the clear plastic bags for gear check: Items in anything other than the clear plastic bags distributed at number pick-up will not be accepted in the gear check area on race day.
· Be familiar with the Event Alert System (EAS): Colored flags will be located at the start line, along the course at the water stations and at the finish areas. The flags will communicate the specific alert level based on a variety of factors, including weather conditions. Participants can learn more about the EAS system at atlantatrackclub.org.
The Atlanta Marathon is an urban marathon that starts and finishes at Atlantic Station. The challenging course takes participants on a tour of the city going past well-known sites and neighborhoods such as Centennial Olympic Park, Georgia Tech, CNN Center, Turner Field, The King Center, Grant Park, Virginia-Highlands, Piedmont Park, Buckhead and along stretches of the famous Peachtree Road. The new 10 Miler will start just outside Piedmont Park and follow the last 10 miles of the Atlanta Marathon course, while both the Atlanta Marathon 5K and Kids Fun Run presented by American Family Insurance will take place at Atlantic Station.
Online registration for all of the Atlanta Marathon events is open through Wednesday, October 23 or until capacity is reached. Participants can register at atlantatrackclub.org or at number pick-up at Atlantic Station on Saturday, October 26.