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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Athens to Atlanta?
Athens to Atlanta is the oldest and most famous road skate in North America. Starting in Athens, Georgia, participants skate through beautiful country roads and quiet suburbia before navigating city streets and triumphantly crossing the 87 mile finish line in historic downtown Atlanta. The course is challenging and requires experienced skating ability, courage, and stamina. Skaters who may not be ready for the whole 87 miles may opt for the 38 mile event, which also starts in Athens, or the 49 mile event, which starts in Dacula and ends in Atlanta. Inlines and quads are welcome, and skaters aged 8-108 may enter.
When and where do I get my skate packet?
Packets can be picked up at the Classic Center in Athens (corner of Thomas and Washington Streets on the East end of town, in the Cypress Room - down on Foundry St) from 3-6pm Saturday the day before the event. This is your last day to register; no event day registration is available.
What ages are allowed to participate?
All ages are welcome for the Saturday 10K. You must be 8 or older to participate in the 38 mile event. You must be 13 or older to participate in the 49 and 87 mile event.
Where is the starting line?
The 87 and 38 mile skates start at 7:00 AM SHARP in front of the Classic Center (N Thomas St and E Hancock Ave). Do NOT arrive at 7:01 – we are already gone! The 49 mile skaters start at 9:30 AM in Dacula (2493 2nd Ave).
What time should I be on the starting line?
For the 38 and 87 mile skates, be ready to roll at the start line at 6:50 AM - we roll at 7:00 AM sharp! The starting line leaves with the skaters, so don't be late. 49 mile skaters start at 9:30 AM in Dacula, we recommend being ready to roll by 9:15 AM.
How long does it take?
Most recreational skaters will average 9 to 10 mph, while the elite skaters average 17-20 mph. As a result, skaters cover the 87 miles with a wide range of finishing times - anywhere from 4.5-10 hours. 38-mile skaters take 2-5 hours to complete their event. 49-mile skaters are expected to come in around the same time as the 87-mile skaters.
Can I change the distance after I've registered?
Yes - please email registration@a2a.net for more information.
Is the event open to quad skaters?
YES! Athens to Atlanta started in 1982 as an all-quad event. It is recommended that quad skates are set up for road skating with a rear brake for downhills and softer road wheels. Our local skateshop, RollATL, would be happy to get you set up with the right gear - give them a call!
What should I bring on the skate?
There are checkpoints every 12-15 miles equipped with water and fruit. At the Athens start line, you will have the opportunity to drop your own nutrition (in a bag marked with your name) into checkpoint boxes, which will be waiting for your arrival. For 49-mile skaters and early-birds, checkpoint boxes will also be available for nutrition drop during the Saturday packet pickup in Athens. We recommend starting the event with a full water bottle or hydration pack, and some extra snacks.
Is it a race?
No. Come to Henry's rant for the full details, but don't let him hear you call it a race. A2A is road skate...we just happen to keep track of the times... and recognize some skaters for moving quicker than others.
What categories are recognized at the Sunday awards ceremony?
Every skater who finishes their skate (87/50/38) receives the coveted A2A finisher’s mug! We also recognize the top 3 overall skaters for Men and Women in the 38, 49, and 87 mile. Quads and inlines are scored together.
  • We also award age groups, men and women, for each distance (87, 49, 38mi):
  • Under 13
  • 13-17
  • 18-29
  • 30-39
  • 40-49
  • 50-59
  • 60-69
  • 70-79
  • 80-89
  • etc.
  • 10K awards ceremony is held directly after the skate, on Saturday, in Athens.
Are the streets closed off?
No, the streets are open to traffic. Police will be present at pertinent intersections, however skaters must be always prepared to stop. It is at the police officer's discretion whether or not they will stop traffic for skaters.
What happens if it rains?
You will get wet. Pack an extra pair of socks.
Can I get a ride from the finish line in Atlanta back to Athens after the awards ceremony?
Athens to Atlanta does not offer official ride services from Atlanta back to Athens. You can use one of the commercial services such as Greyhound Bus, Megabus, Groome Transportation, taxi/ride share, or ask for a ride on the Athens to Atlanta Road Skate Chat group on Facebook.
Where do I get on the Sunday AM Bus?
The Sunday AM Bus will pick up from the ATL Finish line at David T Howard Middle School - 564 Irwin St NE, Atlanta, GA 30312. Onsite parking is available in the lot off Irwin St. The bus departs at 4:45 AM, so arrive at 4:30 AM. The bus will not wait for you.
How do I get from Athens to the 49mi start?
Your event starts at 9:30 AM in Dacula, GA (2493 2nd St). Most skaters ride share to Dacula. If you are having trouble finding a ride share, please contact registration@a2a.net. We may have limited seating available in event vehicles.
How do I get from the 38mi finish to Atlanta?
Most skaters ride share from Dacula back to Atlanta. Some skaters leave a car in Dacula the day before. If you are having trouble finding a ride share, please contact registration@a2a.net. We may have limited seating available in event vehicles.
How should I get to Atlanta/Athens in the first place?
Navigate to the “About A2A” page on our website, and scroll to the bottom to learn more about “Getting There!”