July 2nd, 2025 – 12:45 AM

Ethan Garrett – WRGA Digital News Editor & Video Reporter –

Athletes from around the world gathered at Darlington School in Rome Tuesday evening for a pre-race tune-up as part of the 22nd annual Wheelchair Athlete Training Camp and 5K.

Racers hit the track at Darlington for one of their final workouts ahead of Wednesday night’s 5K in Cedartown, with around 40 athletes taking part in this year’s camp—including competitors from the U.K., Mexico, Belgium, the Netherlands, and the University of Arizona.

The track session gave a close-up look at the skill and determination of these athletes as they prepare for one of Georgia’s most unique racing events. Training has been underway since Monday, with early morning road workouts taking place across Cedartown.

The main event—a 5K race through downtown Cedartown—kicks off Wednesday night on College Street at Peek’s Park.

A kids’ fun run starts at 6:45 p.m., with the official 5K race beginning at 7 PM.

 Prize money and custom trophies will be awarded to the top three finishers in each division.

Founded by Paralympic athlete Krige Schabort, the camp has helped athletes acclimate to Georgia’s summer conditions ahead of the Atlanta Track Club’s Peachtree Road Race.

The annual event is made possible through a partnership with the Shepherd Center and the Atlanta Track Club.