Bill Thorn, Peachtree Road Race 'Iron Man,' dies at 96

Bill Thorn, known as the 'Iron Man' of the Peachtree Road Race, has died at age 96, Atlanta News First reported. Thorn participated in every Peachtree Road Race from its start in 1970 until 2023, becoming a beloved figure in Atlanta's running community.

According to FOX 5 Atlanta, Thorn completed his final race in 2023 and reflected on how aging affected his running, noting that the body changes and cannot perform as it once did.

Thorn also had a distinguished coaching career spanning 65 years, during which he helped Georgia high school teams win 42 state championships, including decades at Landmark Christian School, Atlanta News First said.

In 2023, Thorn was honored as the Peachtree Road Race’s Grand Marshal, where he was chauffeured along the route before finishing on foot. The Atlanta Track Club praised his commitment and inspiration to generations of athletes and encouraged carrying forward his legacy of dedication and joy in running.