He was invited by the organizers, pending an appearance fee of $1,000, which was an under-the-table payment because of the amateur status of so many world-class athletes at that time.

Rodgers' powerful victory helped catapult the event into the national running consciousness.

[citation needed] There are separate but equal awards for men and women individuals, teams and masters (over 40).

Live bands perform at locations along the race course and the finish line is beside TIAA Bank Field.

Special running caps are given to the top 10 percent of racers and medals are given to all 15K finishers.

[8][9] There is a 3-day runner's expo, with dozens of vendor representatives promoting running and health-related products.

Bill Rodgers was a special guest at the expo in 2013, talking about running and signing autographs.

[14] The Gate River Run Hall of Fame was established in 2002 and is permanently located in the Riverplace Tower, on the southbank in downtown Jacksonville.