Girls on the Run 5K

I’m proud to say that I serve as a Board Member for Girls on the Run Los Angeles, an organization that supports the empowerment of young girls through running. This past Sunday, we participated in the Say No to Drugs 5K as our end of season celebration run.

We had over 160 girls participating, and another 150 community members joining us to support the girls. For this first time, I was a spectator at a race as opposed to a participant. It was an interesting change for me, getting to see the first runner come in and cheer on the runners completing the distance. I also got a great first look on what race organizers go through in the set up and preparation for the event, since we had a Girls on the Run booth to set up for all of our participants.

As I was standing near the finish line, awaiting the first “Girl on the Run” to come in, I was anxiously prepping my iPhone to work its magic so I could get a picture of the girls as they came in. Soon, a steady stream of confident girls with bright orange tees came in. These amazing young ladies completed a 5K race on a challenging course and were all smiles at the finish! I was so impressed with their dedication and enthusiasm. I couldn’t believe that these girls are all young than 14. I didn’t run my first 5K until I was 22, and I did not look as confident as these girls are!

I had a great time cheering for these girls, and watching them receive their beautiful race medals. It reminded me of how happy running makes me, how you can push yourself to do things you never thought you could accomplish. Programs like these are so needed, and I’m glad I can do my part to help young girls find their stride.

ABOUT GIRLS ON THE RUN:
Girls on the Run of Los Angeles County is a lot more than a running program. We are fitness and health for mind, body and life. Girls on the Run of Los Angeles County is a life-changing, learning program for girls age eight to fourteen years old. The program combines training for a 3.1 mile run/walk event with self-esteem enhancing, uplifting workouts. The goals of the programs are to encourage positive emotional, social, mental, spiritual and physical development. Girls on the Run of Los Angeles County recognizes that every girl benefits from a lifetime of self respect and healthy living.

Girls on the Run Los Angeles

Girls on the Run International