ATLANTA — MARCH 15, 2022 — Young runners will
have a chance to focus on fitness and their futures this spring, thanks to a
multi-year collaboration between Atlanta Track Club and Microsoft. Microsoft
will become the Official Technology Partner of Atlanta Track Club focusing on
the Club's youth programming and events.
Beginning this year, Microsoft will become the title sponsor of
Peachtree Junior, Atlanta Track Club's marquee youth event, which takes place
July 3, the day before the Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) Peachtree Road
Race. Microsoft will integrate STEM activities into the Microsoft Peachtree
Junior, the Peachtree Health & Fitness Expo presented by Publix, and the
Club's free-to-all Kilometer Kids Program in more than 40 schools in the
Atlanta area. These activities are based on the Microsoft MakeCode platform,
where kids will learn how to code a running-themed video game and use a
micro:bit device to create their own personal step counters.
"Atlanta Track Club's youth programming is the foundation of
Running City USA," said Rich Kenah, CEO of Atlanta Track Club. "The Club
believes in the long-term impact running and walking have on a child's future.
The ability to integrate technology and valuable life skills with our mission
of health and fitness is a testament to Microsoft's commitment to the Atlanta
community and its next generation."
"It is very exciting to work with Atlanta Track Club to find
ways of introducing STEM and computer science through running-themed activities
to children around Atlanta," said Jeff Hansen, general manager of
strategic partnerships at Microsoft. "Beyond the youth experiences,
Microsoft is also exploring how technology can empower the Atlanta Track Club
to best serve its community."
In addition to youth programming, Microsoft will
work with Atlanta Track Club to streamline the Club's technology operations
through Microsoft's wide range of products, such as Microsoft Azure, Microsoft 365
and Microsoft Teams. The Club will have access to Microsoft Surface tablets at
the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Peachtree Road Race on July 4 to ensure
efficient, reliable communication between staff and volunteers at the world's
largest 10K race.
