Girls on the Run serving Iredell and Rowan Counties will hosts its 2014 winter 5K. More than 450 Rowan and Iredell county girls in third to eighth grade will participate. A full list of participating schools and organizations and more details about the 5K may be found on the website here: http://gotriredell.org/girls-on-the-run-5k/.

The run will be this Saturday, starting at 9 a.m. at Catawba College football stadium, 2300 W. Innes St

Girls on the Run is a 501(c)3 positive youth development program which combines an interactive curriculum and running to inspire self-respect and healthy lifestyles in pre-teen girls. The core curriculum addresses many aspects of girls’ development – their physical, emotional, mental and social well-being. Lessons provide girls with the tools to make positive decisions and to avoid risky adolescent behaviors.

During the 10-week program, girls learn life skills through dynamic, interactive lessons and running games. In small teams of eight-10 girls, Running is used to inspire and motivate, encourage lifelong health and fitness, and build confidence through accomplishment. The three-part curriculum is taught by certified Girls on the Run coaches and includes understanding ourselves, valuing teamwork and understanding how we connect with and shape the world at large.

At each season’s conclusion, the girls complete a 5k running event as a group.

Watch a first-hand account of the impact Girls on the Run makes in the lives of our coaches and girls on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9_PC-fvdXA.

For more information about Girls on the Run or for the opportunity to interview girls and coaches participating in the 5K, contact Amy Spear at amy.spear@girlsontherun.org.