A Running Buddy is an individual designated by the council or by the parent/guardian to complete the 5K alongside a program participant during the 5K event, for the entire duration of the course.

Yes! This is encouraged! This is a great way to accomplish a goal together. Parents/Guardians who are interested in being a running buddy must register for the 5K.

Yes! Family, friends and community members outside of our program can participate in the event, but must register for the 5K.

The course for a 5K is 3.1 miles. We will run/walk on roads, not sidwalks, and the course will be closed to traffic.

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!

For safety, all furry friends are not allowed on the course or at the event, so please leave all pets at home on 5K day! All pets will be asked to return to the pet owner's vehicle if spotted at the event.

There will be one aid station on the course. Please bring water for spectators. Runners are also encouraged to bring water bottles along on the course. Additional water will be available at the finish line for the runners only.

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

We strongly encourage that all program 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!

Absolutely! Every registered participant who completes the 5K will receive a medal, t-shirt, swag bag, and snacks at finish line. 

For safety, every runner wears a race bib (provided by the council). Our council ensures every GOTR 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. 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!

Yes! The earlier you register for the 5K, the less you will pay. See our fee schedule above!