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On Saturday, May 9, Girls on the Run of Northeast Tennessee, Inc. will host the second annual New Balance Girls on the Run 5K at Bristol Motor Speedway.
Girls on the Run is a non-profit character development program for girls between the ages of 8 and 13 that uses running to teach the principles of self-respect and healthy living. The 12-week program combines physical training for a 5K running event with uplifting lessons that encourage positive social and emotional development.
“Our curriculum focuses on specific social and personal skills that prepare participants for a lifetime of healthy choices,” said Ani Boyd, Council Director. “By providing the girls with enabling tools before they reach adolescence, we can reduce the potential display of at-risk activities, such as eating disorders, obesity, substance abuse, and teen pregnancy.”
Girls on the Run of Northeast Tennessee, Inc. currently serves 150 girls at sites in Johnson City, Bristol, Kingsport, Blountville, Elizabethton, and Erwin. Girls in the spring program have been meeting twice a week since February. Sessions last one hour and consist of a warm-up activity, stretching, and a workout that utilizes a game or team goal.
“Participants don’t have to be serious runners; we just want them to keep moving, whether they run, walk, skip, or hop,” said Boyd. “By May 9, all of the girls will be ready to complete the Girls on the Run 5K.”
The New Balance Girls on the Run 5K will not only serve as the culminating experience for the spring program, but will also be open to the public, raising awareness and involvement for Girls on the Run. The 5K will start and finish on the Bristol track. To celebrate Mother’s Day weekend, mothers and children will receive a special registration rate.
Registration for the event begins at 8 a.m. and the race begins at 9 a.m.
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