Front Runners Atlanta Announces 35th Annual Pride Run

Front Runners Atlanta (FRATL), a running, walking and social club for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies, announced details for the 2024 Atlanta Pride Run.

The event expects more than 3,000 participants for this year’s 5K charity walk and run on Sunday, June 2, starting at 8 a.m. at Piedmont Park. This year’s theme is “Where You Belong” to emphasize that everyone is welcome to participate, regardless of their background, identity or abilities.

The Atlanta Pride Run raises funds and awareness for people affected by HIV and is also a qualifier for the Peachtree Road Race offering in-person and virtual participation options. This year the event introduces chip timing for accurate results and finisher medals.

“I get emotional thinking about how important this event is to the community,” said DJ Pulce, executive director of the Atlanta Pride Run. “It’s more than just a race; it is a lifeline, providing vital support for HIV testing and treatment, and enabling individuals to live their best lives. The growth from 650 runners in 2019 to 3,000 in 2024 shows the power of collective action. As the proud Black queer leader of this diverse team, I am honored. Together, we are not only marking a milestone; we are driving positive change, setting a new standard for inclusive activism.

Through this year’s running and programming efforts, FRATL aims to donate more than $120,000 to fight HIV, which includes matching contributions from the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, marking a record donation for the organization . Grantees include AID Atlanta, Bridge of Light and Lost + Found Youth.

FRATL will also honor local Atlantans who exemplify its mission, values ​​and legacy through this year’s racing efforts. These local Atlantans are recognized for their unwavering commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community and their significant contributions to improving the lives of many.

2024 award recipients include:

• Price Where You Belong: Ree De La Vega, Chaka Khan
• Volunteer Award: Ray Young, Bridge of Light
• Community Advocacy Award: Jon Santos, AID Atlanta
• Excellence Award: Keith Willey and Philip Vallowe (posthumous), Front Runners Atlanta
• Humanity Prize: Jerayla Zimmerman, Youth Lost + Found

FRATL continues to create impactful experiences by channeling all profits to local HIV charities that provide intensive care and treatment services. Last year’s donations funded a year of emergency accommodation for LGBTQIA+ young people, provided 3,000 free HIV tests, distributed 1,600 care packages and funded accessibility improvements for this year’s race.

To register and more details, visit here.