Practice 5K!

Practice makes perfect! Well, you don't have to be perfect, but we did get perfect running weather, with blue skies, mild temperatures and a kindergarten cheering section to get us started. The girls started a little sluggish, but when the girls started taking turns leading the warm-up, the energy level increased. Coach Jenn, led us in some high knee running exercises, Coach Tanya added arm circles and now we were ready to start! We reviewed the route with the girls, explaining that one lap would equal 1 mile and that they were to complete 3 laps. Our volunteers; Laura, Becky and Meghan, had the water station table ready with plenty of water and gatorade. After bathroom breaks, checking the laces on shoes, we were ready for the first lap. Hurray!!!! Coach Jenn reminded the girls about the importance of pacing and off we went, everyone at their own pace. Some of the girls ran together, some ran with Coach Jenn, Brianna was fortunate enough to have her mom running and encouraging her and Marissa ran with Coach Tanya. We made sure all of the girls were with a buddy.

The girls cheered each other on through the first lap. I heard lots of way to go, you are doing a great job! and keep it up! The first lap ended with the girls stopping to get some water and then off to lap 2. Some of the girls needed to walk, which is always okay, as long as you keep moving, which they did. You could hear the girls tell each other during lap 2, we are halfway there, Yeah!!!

The final lap was a cause for much joy and excitement as the girls made their way to the finish line. Each girl received a medal as she crossed the finish line. The girls joined together and made a victory tunnel for the final girl, Marissa. When Marissa heard the girls chanting her name, she suddenly forgot she was tired and ran. All of the girls ran with her during the final downhill to the finish line. We did it! Everyone finished, what a great job! All of the girls got a goodie bag with treats and a miniature sneaker with laces-for going the extra mile. What a great way to start the weekend. Congratulations to all of the girls! A big GOTR cheer to the volunteers and to Brianna's mom for coming out to support her.
Remember: The Celebration 5k is May 23 and the girls will need running buddies. Running buddies do need to register at the GOTR Montgomery County website. You will also receive information concerning packet pick-up.