The event was set up by the White House to give Carter a chance to run a competitive road race without the security risk of a third-party organizer.

The Catoctin Mountain Park course was hilly, and due to over-exertion Carter collapsed after about four miles, leading to concerns about his health and questions about his re-election campaign.

[1][2] Carter was a cross country runner for the Navy Midshipmen team in the 1940s, but he only began jogging recreationally in the fall of 1978.

[2] The race was held on an out-and-back course, allowing the professional field to see Carter running down the hill as they ran back up it.

Carter acknowledged Lindsay as he passed, calling out, "Give him room" to the other lead runners in the tight pack.

[6] Approximately four miles into the race, Carter started to appear fatigued, with those around him commenting on his ashy face and drooping form.