by: Jessica Hsiang Ng, Girls on the Run
On a crisp November afternoon, Korematsu Elementary School’s quad buzzed with energy as family members and coaches cheered on thirteen girls as they completed their very first 5K fun run.
It was a joyful culmination of Girls on the Run (GOTR) of Greater Sacramento’s 8-week “Hello, Mountain Mover” program, which combines physical activity with life-skills lessons focused on building confidence, teamwork, and strength among girls in third through fifth grades.
“We absolutely love the program, the message, and the impact it has on the girls’ confidence,” Korematsu GOTR parent Jill Hosseini said. “We are so lucky to have it at our school.”
Empowering girls at a critical time
Feelings of persistent sadness and hopelessness are reported at higher rates in girls than boys, according to the Centers for Disease Control’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey. Girls are also exposed to longstanding gender stereotypes, societal obstacles, and cultural challenges that can be detrimental to their emotional and physical health.
These worrisome statistics point to the importance of programming that strengthens confidence and connection with peers. GOTR participants attend two 90-minute sessions each week led by trained volunteer coaches following our research-based curriculum using physical activity and dynamic discussions to build social, emotional, and physical skills while encouraging healthy habits for life.
“The Girls on the Run program is building a community of girls who, through the program, have the tools and knowledge to be the best of oneself and to support each other,” veteran Korematsu coach and GOTR Board Member Patty Hon said. “I continue to be involved in the program and look forward to seeing the program become more available in Davis.”
Third-grader Hannah Sangster is in her first year. “The coaches were nice, and they taught us about kindness,” she said. “I learned that I liked running and making new friends. At the end, I got to do a 5k with all my friends—that was really fun!”
Growth in Davis
GOTR served nearly 800 girls across the Sacramento region in 2024 and is looking forward to expanding in Davis this Spring. Hon is working with GOTR staff to ensure successful programs operate at Willett, North Davis, and Korematsu Elementary Schools, and said she’s excited Montgomery will bring GOTR back to campus for the first time post-pandemic.
A bright future
As the 5K concluded with medals and cheers, it was clear the program’s impact extended beyond the finish line. Parents, coaches, and participants celebrated not just the physical accomplishment but also the lessons in self-esteem, perseverance, and friendship.
“I appreciated that my daughter was taught about perseverance in a kind and engaging way. The program emphasizes collaboration, self-reflection and self-confidence,” Kate Sangster said. “My kid felt extreme pride upon finishing her 5k and is excited to sign up again!”
Coach registration is open for Spring 2025, and participant registration opens February 10 at www.gotrsac.org.
Full-price registration is $185 and includes curriculum and lesson materials, journal, an official GOTR T-shirt and water bottle, and registration and 5K Finishers Medal for the 5K. Partial and full scholarships are available for those with need; approximately 50% of participants receive some form of financial assistance. Every girl who requests financial assistance is also offered a brand new pair of running shoes at no cost.
“Girls on the Run isn’t just about running,” Hon said. “It’s about preparing these girls for all the finish lines they’ll face in life.”