The Girls on the Run (GOTR) team from the Boys & Girls Club’s recently completed their first 5k run/walk. GOTR is an after school program for third through fifth grade girls that uses the power of exercise, preparation to run a 5K event, and positive mentoring to “prepare girls for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living.” The program incorporates a variety of activities like running, playing games, and discussing issues relevant to girls including body image, gossiping, and healthy nutrition.
The eleven girls in the program met twice weekly for twelve weeks at the Maxwell Clubhouse and were coached by volunteers Tracy Byrnes and Kelly Cooper from Athleta, as well as Anne Marie Sebastiani, Jenny Hinman, and Estella Villasenor.
“Coaching Girls On The Run is so rewarding,” said Byrnes. “Many of the girls couldn’t run a full lap around the track on the first day. We work with them to coach a healthy lifestyle that includes nutrition, emotions, exercise, and healthy choices in difficult situations. As they learn these life lessons and practice running, they find confidence and strength they never knew they had. The 5K race is truly an accomplishment for them. I hope they carry the self-belief and strength with them the rest of their lives.”
