02 Feb 2022 PTCRC HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE MARK WARD
Mark Ward has served not only the local running community, but nationally as well. He was the Georgia State RRCA rep from 2005-2010. In this capacity, he served as ambassador for the organization by providing a physical presence in the state of Georgia for the RRCA. He promoted RRCA programs and services to members, non-members, and individual runners in the state of Georgia. He monitored trends and issues at the state and local level and reported them to the National Office. Mark has also served as the Auctioneer for the annual RRCA Convention for the past 12 years since 2011. On his own initiative, he took over the program that was basically operating out of a closet and only making $1900 per year and turned it completely around. His first year as Auctioneer brought in over $9000. In recognition of his outstanding service, he received the 2017 RRCA President’s Award for Special Achievement.
Mark also served as the PTCRC Activities Vice President for two years during 2008-2009. However, his main contribution was that he served an unprecedented six years as President of the Club during the period 2016-2021. This tenure included the two-year pandemic which resulted in additional challenges to club operations which Mark handled with skill and wisdom. Monthly club meetings were able to continue via a combination of Zoom meetings and social distancing meetings. Unable to execute a live PTC Classic Race for the first time in the almost 40-year history of the club, Mark oversaw the implementation of the first and only Virtual Classic Race which was a great success. The income generated by the event enabled the club to continue operations while many others struggled just to stay viable.
Mark instituted several initiatives during his tenure, one of which was the solicitation of club sponsors. Through his efforts, several businesses signed on which provided funds for the club and publicity for the sponsoring companies.
Mark continues to stay active in the club serving as Master of Ceremonies for the Classic and volunteering in countless other ways.
Accordingly, by unanimous acclamation of the Hall of Fame Nominating Committee, Mark Ward is hereby inducted into the Peachtree City Running Club 2022 Hall of Fame.