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!

No. All GOTR participants, family members, registered runners and friends must park at Albemarle High School TO BE CONFIRMED (2775 Hydraulic Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22901) and take the shuttle bus.

Only 5K Volunteers, Girls on the Run Coaches, and approved handicapped visitors are allowed to park on campus.

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 that 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 upon request. 

A Running Buddy is a volunteer designated by our council to complete the 5K alongside a program participant.

No. Running buddies are volunteers and must undergo a background check. All other participants (parents/ guardians) are considered registered runners and must register as such.

If you would like to participate in our 5K Event, we encourage you to register as a registered runner and accomplish this goal alongside your child.

Absolutely! Every registered participant who completes the 5K will receive a medal.

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

A virtual 5K is still a 3.1-mile event, but is completed from a location that you choose. That could be in your neighborhood, at a nearby park, on a trail or even on a treadmill! It’s your 5K and you can run, walk, roll or push it at your own happy pace! 

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 water stations, happy hair stations photo ops and more! Of course, we’ll have merchandise for sale, too!

Yes. Early bird registration will end on 3/6 and there will be a price increase. There will also be a price increase after registration ends on 4/17. If you have not registered by 4/17, you will be able to register on race day.

Council staff will send reminders for those wishing to participate to register in advance.