This annual 10K road race—the most popular pre-qualifier for Atlanta’s Peachtree Road Race—originated 1981 in memory of Dr. Charles E. Harris.

An all-star football player, Dr. Harris was awarded “unsung All American” honors at the University of Georgia before playing at the professional level. He returned to Georgia to teach history and coach football, and later became Principal of Shamrock High School. Respected by the community and devoted to his family, Dr. Harris lost his life to leukemia at the age of 49.

While Dr. Harris could not defeat leukemia, he would be honored to know that the Charles Harris Run serves to help others win their battle against the disease.

Through the efforts of his oldest son, Chuck Harris, and dedicated running comrades, the Charles Harris Run now ranks as one of the largest annual 10K races throughout the State of Georgia.  Now 36 years old, the Charles Harris Run is also the third oldest road race in the State.

Not only has this fast course created an incentive for seeded runners of the Peachtree, but its fundraising value also inspires all ages to enter. Since the race’s inception, the Charles Harris Run has raised over $1,000,000 for leukemia research at Emory University.

For more information visit: http://charlesharrisrun.com/