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!

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 every 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 with the help of volunteers and the CARA (Culpeper Area Amatuer Radio Club) along with EMS support.  We have a team of roving course marshalls (sparkle runners, who encourage girls that have lost their buddies and help them to the finish line. We also have a sparkle finish team who will be the last people to cross our finish line to ensure that the course is clear and that none of the girls are "last".Our council has a safety plan in place,  and has police and EMS support on site.

We try our best, if you have concerns, please reach out to us and we will make sure that we make any necessary modifications to ensure a safe and fun event.  We have a mixed terrain course, but due to the expanse of property between Lenn Park and Old House Vineyards conditions vary based on weather conditions.

Designated parking spots are available.

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.  A running buddy is for both safety and encouragement during the 5K.  It is recommended that running buddies be at least 16 years old.

Yes! This is encouraged! This is a great way to accomplish a goal together. 

Absolutely! All 5K participants registered online by the t-shirt deadline get a t-shirt.

Only GOTR and Heart & Sole participants receive a finisher's medal.  The finisher medal is for the accomplishing 10 weeks of running, including both a practice 5K and the celebratory 5K.  

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

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, girls will meet at their team tent and participate in Happy Hair, Tattoos, bib decorating and more. Of course, we’ll have merchandise for sale, too!

For non-program participants, the price will increase for day of registration.  We strongly encourage early online registration.