The USATF Georgia Association boasts over 5,000 members. Within our organization, we have so many wonderful volunteers who serve the Association in many capacities - as volunteers, parents, officials, administrators and coaches. They work tirelessly behind the scenes where ever and whenever they are needed. It is for these individuals that we have created our feature "Member Spotlight - Someone You Should Know." It is our way of showing them how much we appreciate their contributions.

Wendy Collins' involvement with USATF GA began in 1995 when she registered her daughter to run with DC Express Track Club. She began as an involved parent, which led to joining USATF as a volunteer and ultimately as an official. Today Wendy is Vice Chairman of DC Express Track Club and past USATF Georgia Youth Secretary.  She also volunteers for Atlanta Track Club events, and she plays a prominent team lead role at the Publix Georgia Marathon helping man a USATF GA water station on the course.

Wendy advised, "We didn't have a girls track team at my high school, but I played volleyball and basketball. I played basketball even in college. I started running only because of my kids. My running days are behind me, but I walk faster than some run (smile) This past July 4th I completed my 16th Peachtree Road Race."

When asked about any goals she has, Wendy replied, "Since heart issues run in my family, my goal is to just keep moving. I've completed the 3 Day Komen Breast Cancer Walk (60miles) I did a half marathon when I turned the big "50". Perhaps I'll try to complete a marathon or some other physical challenge at 60. I still have a few years to decide. "

Wendy, USATF Georgia Association is proud to have you as a valued member. Your contributions to the sport, to the Georgia Association and to the community are very much appreciated! As a special note: Wendy Collins will be inducted into the D.C. Express Track Club Hall of Fame this weekend at their 30th Anniversary Celebration. Congratulations Wendy!
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USATFGA Masters/LDR GP Standings as of Race #2
 The second event in the LDR/Master Grand Prix Series was contested on September 14, 2014 at the Iron Horse 15K in Kennesaw, GA.  The 15K certified course featured some nice downhills coupled with some gently rolling hills, and just a few uphills. The weather was perfect, cool and overcast with a little misting toward the end of the race.

GP Standings have now been updated through the first two events. You can find current GP Standings HERE.

Join us for the 3rd of 4 events at the "Georgia Urology Fast Pace 5K" scheduled for Saturday,  October 18, 2014 in Cumming, GA. It is our USATF GA 5K LDR/Masters 5K Championship. It is coupled with a 10K and both are fast courses and Peachtree qualifiers. As a bonus, Olympian Frank Shorter will be at the race's pre-race pasta dinner on Friday. Full details on the GP are located HERE.

LDR Chair Mike Spino (3rd from right) and Masters Chair Jim Bitsko (far right) present awards at Iron Horse 15K on September 14.
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 In Memoriam - Dave Palmer, Head Coach - Inferno Elite Youth Track Club
   Coach Palmer passed away on Saturday, Sept 20, 2014 from complications due to a stroke. He will be missed by his USATF family. "Dave was involved in everything Track and Field and challenged us to "Be Better people", Do Better things" and "Do Right by the Youth athletes"  Continuously setting a bar that each of us should want to even come close to." (Jacqui Collins, USATFGA Youth Chair)

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Cross Country Season is Here!
September 21, 2014 - Alpha Crush XC Meet - RESULTS
October 4, 2014 - Etowah Track Club
October 11, 2014 - Heart and Sole Track Club
November 1, 2014 - Peachtree City Flash
November 15, 2014 - USATF GA JO Youth XC Championship

Complete Details
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USATF Georgia Congratulates D.C. Express Track Club on 30 Years!
D.C. Express Track Club will celebrate its 30th year anniversary on Saturday, September 27th with a celebration dinner and an induction ceremony into the club's Hall of Fame Class of 2014 for three deserving individuals.  Former athlete Olympian Dwight Phillips, Administrator Wendy Collins and Club Founder and Head Coach Ron Williams will be honored.

The USATF Georgia Association congratulates the D.C. Express Club and its Hall of Fame Class of 2014!

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