Increased Security Planned For Peachtree Race

Organizers are adding more restricted areas at the Atlanta event.

An article posted on the Florida Times Union’s Website is reporting that Atlanta’s Peachtree Road Race is taking security seriously this year. In the wake of the bombings at the finish line of the Boston Marathon on April 15, this should come as no surprise.

Specifically, runners will have their bags, backpacks, and purses searched near the finish line.

Additionally, more restricted areas will be set up to keep out members of the general public.

“As a result of what happened in Boston in April, we have worked very closely with the city of Atlanta and the Atlanta Police Department and several state and federal agencies,” remarked race director Tracey Russell, who is also the director of the Atlanta Track Club. “We’re being careful.”

The annual road race takes place on July 4.

Atlanta-based consultant Ari Weitz who is running his fifth race doesn’t see this is a problem. “In the wake of the Boston bombings, you have to take the proper precautionary measures even though it might slow down the process of people starting the race and/or finishing the race,” he said.