Valdosta runners take to Baytree Road for Fourth of July 5K

VALDOSTA, Ga. (WALB) — Runners of all ages gathered on Baytree Road on the Fourth of July for a community 5K, many dressed in red, white and blue.

The race was organized by Valdosta State cross country coach Todd Smoot, who said the event was inspired by Atlanta’s Peach Tree Road Race.

“I grew up in Atlanta so I was used to that race that’s called Peach Tree Road Race, and I ran that a number of years so I tried to translate that to the Valdosta area,” Smoot said.

Festive attire encouraged

Smoot said he encourages participants to dress for the holiday.

“I ask for festive attire but it’s not required. But I ask for it and I love it when people dress out like they did,” Smoot said. “The gentleman with the white wig — it’s fun. I hope they enjoy it just as much as I enjoy watching them participate in that aspect.”

Runners range from 6 to 69

The field included runners ranging in age from 6 to 69, completing the 3.1-mile course. Even a dog participated in the event.

Valdosta State chemistry professor Dean Duncan, 61, said he hit a personal target on the course.

“I wanted to run under 23 minutes and I did 22:40 today so I’m pretty happy about that,” Duncan said. “61 years old hanging in there.”

Former ABAC runner Canaan Ponce said the event reflected something larger than the race itself.

“It’s amazing you know how people come together on the Fourth of July, it’s not just you know fireworks, picnics and stuff — it’s people coming together and we like to see the unity out here,” Ponce said.

Personal goals mark the day

For some participants, the race carried personal significance. Valdosta State alum Dominique Love said she ran the 5K as part of a broader set of goals she set around her birthday.

“My birthday was yesterday, I got new goals and a new mindset this year,” Love said. “My life for this year is based off the four Gs. You got God, gym, growth and this was one of my goals so I reached my goal today.”

All proceeds from the race benefit the Valdosta State cross country team. Those wishing to donate can visit runsignup.com.

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