The course for a 5K is 3.1 miles. 

As a reminder, this is a fun, celebratory event for our participants and not a competitive race. While our fastest 5K participants will complete the course in 25 minutes, most cross the finish line in 30-50 minutes. Everyone who participates is encouraged to walk, roll, push, run or skip at their happy pace!

First, we understand that life happens, and circumstance might make it impossible to attend.

We strongly encourage that all participants attend and complete the 5K, as it is the goal that teams are preparing for all season long! It’s the ultimate opportunity to build confidence through accomplishment. Remember, this is the first 5K event for many – including coaches, participants, friends and family members. We are in it together!

For safety reasons, every participant must wear a race bib (provided by the council). Our council ensures every participant has a running buddy, and only critical 5K volunteers have access to confidential information.

To ensure every participant crosses the finish line, we monitor the course and conduct head counts. Our council has a safety plan in place, which trains staff and volunteers on how to respond during an emergency or incident.

Yes. Girls on the Run 5K events are for everyone! All participants can walk, run, push or roll safely and at their own happy pace. Designated parking spots are available.

A signature component of the GOTR 5K is "THE RUNNING BUDDY."

~ Running Buddies are 16 years old or older on the day of the 5K. They can be mom, dad, brother, sister, cousin, aunt, uncle, babysitter… you get the picture. 😊

~ The role of the Running Buddy is to stay with their girl from start to finish to encourage her and be there to help her celebrate this wonderful achievement.

~ Requirements: Running Buddies must be able to stay with their girl throughout the run. **We do NOT REQUIRE every girl to have a Running Buddy, but it is encouraged if a girl is feeling nervous about the event. If your girl doesn't have a Running Buddy - but would like one, we can pair her up with a Community Running Buddy - this is someone who will be able to stay with your girl the entire time (this person will be 18 years old or older and will have cleared a background check).

Yes! This is encouraged! This is a great way to accomplish a goal together. 

All of our participants receive wonderful refreshments at the finish line! 

Yes! Family, friends and community members outside of our program can participate in the event, but must register.

A site-based 5K means the 5K course will take place at the site where an individual team practiced throughout the season. 

Yes. All 5K registration forms include liability waivers.

Yes! Our Council is selling merchandise to support our program! Be sure to look for our merchandise booth/tent to commemorate this memorable event.

Yes! As this is the highlight of the season, there will be face painting, water stations, happy hair stations and more! Of course, we’ll have merchandise for sale, too!