The Georgia International Road Skating Association, Inc., (hereinafter referred to as “GIRSA”) is a human services organization in the category of recreation, sports, and leisure.  GIRSA was formed for public benefit to produce and advise on the production of high quality outdoor skating events and competitions, to provide skating education and promote safety, to promote fitness and good health through the activity of skating, and to promote skating as an alternative to motor vehicle transportation.  GIRSA is primarily active in outdoor skating events occurring in the state of Georgia, but reserves the option to support other forms of skating, such as indoor rink skating.

Upon its inception, GIRSA assumed responsibility for the production of the Athens to Atlanta Road Skate.  The Athens to Atlanta Road Skate is an annual 87-mile skate occurring in the fall.  It has operated continuously since 1982 and is now in its 24th year of operation.  Participants skate 87 miles from downtown Athens, Georgia, to Piedmont Park in Atlanta, on a challenging course that requires experienced skating ability, courage, and stamina, often requiring months of physical preparation and training prior to the event.  Participants not up to the full distance may also skate either a 52- or 38-mile route.  Athens to Atlanta is a part of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team in Training Program, where participants receive professional training in distance skating while raising funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.  Athens to Atlanta also accepts direct contributions to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society from those participants not participating in the Team in Training program.  These funds are forwarded directly to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at the conclusion of each year's event.

The Athens to Atlanta Road Skate is funded by entry fees, private donations, and sponsorships.  Please see enclosures for more specifics on the Athens to Atlanta Road Skate.