Sunday, June 25, 2023–1:16 p.m.

-News Release-

Paralympians and wheelchair athletes continue a two-decade tradition of gathering in Cedartown to race the fastest 5K course in the world.

Paralympic medalist & ESPY winner Krige Schabort, local pastor Dave Grove, and community leaders started the Cedartown Training Camp and 5K Road Race in 2000.

The camp gives international athletes a place to practice and compete in other major U.S. racing events.

Local host families shower the athletes with southern hospitality over shared meals and finish-line cheers. Long-time camp participants include some of the world’s fastest wheelchair athletes.

Only the Paralympics and a worldwide pandemic have paused this annual tradition.

The training camp is coming up on Thursday, July 6 from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. on the Darlington School campus in Rome.

The 5K Road Race starts at 6 p.m. at Peek Forest Park in Cedartown.