PTC Running Club Announces Its Superlatives for 2025

The Peachtree City Running Club held its annual Christmas Awards Banquet at the Whitewater Country Club this past Friday, 5 December. The club takes this opportunity every year to recognize those club members who have excelled throughout the year in various categories. The nominees are voted on by club members at large, and the winners announced at the banquet.

   Most Inspirational was runner Laura Wetzl for her growth as an ultra-marathoner.  She competed at Sweetwater Creek State Park in the Yeti Snakebite trail run (completing 35 miles in 8 hours), securing 5^th female and 9^th overall finisher. Laura ran the Peachtree City Classic 15K, finishing 1^st in her age group and 5^th overall female. Just a couple of months later, she ran the Mental Health Ultra 50K, improving her time to 6.5 hours.

   Female Rookie of the Year was Esme Doucette and Male Rookie of the Year was Esme’s fiancé, Steven Hightshue. As new members, they jumped in with both feet, volunteering at and participating in numerous club activities and events. Esme and Steven each demonstrated growth as runners while contributing to the welcoming environment our club seeks to foster so that all runners and walkers feel welcome. 

   Most Improved Female Runner was Jaime Manis and Most Improved Male Runner was Adam Glendye. Both Jaime and Adam tested themselves at new race distances, from the marathon to 50k ultra-marathons. They both demonstrated growth as runners and testify to how what they learned in the process is helping them to grow as individuals. 

     Volunteer of the Year Award went to Jane Hamilton for her tireless efforts on behalf of the club. Jane is described by a fellow club member as “the definition of a silent servant – kind, gentle, and always ready to help without ever seeking recognition.” She embodies the service-oriented nature of the club, organizing and volunteering at events to help others experience our club positively and to develop in their running. 

   The President’s Award was presented to Paul Schultz, the 2025 Activities Vice President. Paul organized, led, and trained several groups of new Couch to 5K runners throughout the year. He demonstrated a consistent level of investment, thoughtfulness, and passion for the people and events of the club. Evan Lovelace, current Club President, found Paul to be an especially helpful source of feedback and encouragement. 

   Former Club President and current Peachtree City Classic Race Director, Shelly Collins, was inducted into the PTCRC Hall of Fame. Shelly was outstanding in her leadership of the club for three years, helping to increase club membership, improve social media presence, and lift the overall engagement level in club activities. 

     Finally, George Martin was presented with the running club’s first ever Lifetime Achievement award for his impact on the running community at large over the past two decades.  George served as Club President, Peachtree City Classic Race Director for 12 years, and established the Elementary School Grand Prix Series which just completed its 25^th year. George has positively influenced generations of runners through his selfless service, and he continues to do so. 

   In addition to the club superlative awards, top finishers in the Monthly Run Social series were awarded gift certificates and 1000 Mile Club participants were recognized with certificates and or jackets commemorating their mileage achievements.