A season of self-confidence, teamwork, and joyful runs wraps up in style as Girls on the Run Western Colorado gets ready to host its end-of-season 5K on May 3 at Shelledy Elementary School.
The run starts at 9 a.m. sharp in Fruita, and it’s not just about crossing the finish line — it’s a big, heartfelt celebration of the journey these girls have been on, together.
More Than Just a Run
This 5K isn’t about setting personal records or fierce competition. It’s a victory lap. A chance to celebrate growth, confidence, and new friendships. Girls on the Run isn’t your average after-school activity — it’s part mentorship, part movement, and all about building stronger, more confident girls through running and life lessons.
Each season, girls in 3rd through 8th grade join teams led by volunteer coaches. They spend weeks training — not just their legs, but their voices, hearts, and confidence. Then it all comes together in this celebratory run.
Why It Matters for the Girls
For many of these girls, the May 3rd 5K will be their very first. And that’s kind of the point.
“It’s not just about fitness,” said Marlena Diedrich, Director of Development and Events for GOTR. “It’s about helping them believe in themselves. Seeing that finish line does something — it sticks.”
There’s something powerful about tying shoelaces, lining up with friends, and pushing through those last few meters, medal waiting at the end. It’s emotional for a lot of them. And for the families cheering from the sidelines.
What to Expect at the Fruita 5K
The event is open to the public and brings together schools, families, and community members in a colorful morning full of smiles, signs, and team spirit. Expect tutus, face paint, and lots of high fives. According to organizers, every participant will go home with:
-
A commemorative medal
-
Girls on the Run merchandise
-
That indescribable feeling of accomplishment
GOTR has always been about more than physical activity — it’s the community support, the safe space for emotional expression, and the slow but steady building of confidence that make it different.
A Snapshot of GOTR’s Local Impact
Here’s a quick look at Girls on the Run Western Colorado by the numbers:
| Season | Spring 2025 |
|---|---|
| Participants | Over 400 girls |
| Coaches | 80+ volunteer mentors |
| Locations | 22+ schools and sites |
| Core Values | Confidence, empathy, joy, inclusion |
One parent, whose daughter is in her second season, said, “I’ve seen her stand taller. She doesn’t get discouraged as easily. And she’s making friends who really build her up.”
It’s for the Whole Family
While the spotlight shines on the girls, the 5K pulls in people from all corners of the community. Siblings run. Parents walk. Grandparents cheer. Even local volunteers show up to mark the course, hand out medals, and shout encouragement.
“This isn’t just a race,” said Diedrich. “It’s a shared moment. For some families, it’s the first time they’ve all laced up together.”
And there’s no strict time limit or stopwatch ticking. Everyone moves at their own pace. Some girls sprint. Others jog. Plenty of teams walk with their coaches. And all of them finish with a smile — or at least a goofy, proud, slightly out-of-breath grin.
