“It’s iconic Atlanta”

Neither are trying to break records because for them, racing is more about camaraderie than speed. “I try to keep my time low enough that I don’t get too embarrassed,” said Taylor, who estimates he’s run the Peachtree at least 15 times and tries to finish in less than an hour.

Kevin, who has run the race at least 10 times, said the first mile is a trot at best because there are so many people. His best moment? 49 minutes. He plans to be there in July. “I train hard,” he said.

Q: What does the Peach tree mean for the city?

Taylor: This is iconic Atlanta. Having the world’s largest 10K in our city and being able to run through the streets of Atlanta is the best way for me to celebrate Independence Day. You have firefighters running around in full regalia. You have multi-generational families who have been running it for years. Everyone has a story. It’s a great hodgepodge of humanity and it’s moving.

Kevin: It’s part of the urban fabric like CNN or Coke or going to a Braves game.

Q: Do you have a favorite part of the race?

Taylor: I always stop where the patients at Shepherd Center are looking at me. It’s really worth it. They come out so early and line the road. These people encourage us and it makes me cry. I say, “You are the heroes, not us!” ” I take pictures. I give hugs. It wastes my time but it’s definitely worth it.

Kevin: I love running under the giant American flag at the start. It is very moving.

Q: You’re trying to convince me to run Peachtree for the first time. What do you say?

Taylor: You do it once, you’re hooked for life. The adrenaline, the feeling of hanging out with people during this big party. The feeling of being part of Cardiac Hill. The sweaty celebration and getting your T-shirt at Piedmont Park. It’s euphoric, no matter the heat and humidity. You spend the rest of the day feeling like you’ve accomplished something great.

Kevin: There are two kinds of people in the city: those who ran the Peachtree, who are true Atlantans, and those who didn’t. Which one do you want to be?