Phi Delta Theta chapters across Georgia jointly hosted the inaugural Iron Phive K for ALS on March 29, 2015. The race was part of a state-wide event coordinated by the undergraduate chapters at University of Georgia, Mercer University and Georgia Tech with proceeds going to support The ALS Association.

After several months of planning and preparation, the three simultaneous 5k runs grossed nearly $10,000 in race entry fees, sponsorships and donations. Donations will be split between ALS’s National Office and the ALS Association Georgia Chapter.

“It has been exciting to partner with Phi Delta Theta on this great event,” said Sarah Embro, Executive Director of The ALS Association of Georgia. “Their continued support both here locally and as a national sponsor of The ALS Association is greatly appreciated and goes a long way to help generate awareness of ALS and toward finding a cure.”

The 2015 Iron Phive K was part of the 2015 Black Bag Race Series and was open to the public. Awards were presented at each race site to overall male/female, overall masters male/female and top 3 finishers in standard age groups from 10 and under to 75 and over. Also recognized was Georgia Delta member Owen Fisher who completed the run and raised $1,000 to meet the requirements for becoming an Iron Phi.

“It’s been a great opportunity to partner with other Phi Delt chapters across the state for a common cause, especially one as important to Phi Delta Theta at both the national and local level,” said Grant Gosden, Georgia Alpha race organizer. “Baseball great Lou Gehrig was a member of Phi Delta Theta as well as a victim of this disease so participating has even greater meaning for us.”

Phi-owned or managed businesses sponsoring the 2015 Iron Phive K include Village Fitness, Classic City Cotton, Sphinx Business Solutions, James M. Freeman PC, and Custom Beverage Concepts.

Phi Delta Theta has already committed to making the Georgia Iron Phive K an annual event and has reserved April 3 as the date for 2016.