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.

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

Every season we are seeking volunteer running buddies to help our girls shine! If you are not yet paired with a GOTR participant, do not register yet. Your first step will be to reach out to the staff at the GOTR office to add your name to the list. You will then be contacted if a running buddy need arises. Contact Jen Naegele at jennifer.naegele@girlsontherun.org or 989-399-0007 ext. 104.

Running buddies assigned by our council must be a female over the age of 18, and undergo our background check process (a $10 fee). Spring 5K running buddies must also register for the GOTR 5K at the Dow RunWalk. 

Yes! The Dow RunWalk is a fun, family-friendly event that is open to the whole community! Learn more about this event and other Greater Midland events at www.greatermidland.org/races! Note: Registration for the GOTR 5K at the Dow RunWalk is open only to running buddies and coaches.

Yes! As this is the highlight of the season, there will be a DJ and dancing, water stations, an inpirsation station, and more! Of course, we’ll have merchandise for sale, too!

Yes. All 5K registration forms include liability waivers.

As a reminder, the Girls on the Run 5K 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!

The course for a 5K is 3.1 miles. 

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!

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.

For safety reasons, every participant must wear a race bib (provided by the Greater Midland Community Center). 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 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! Our Council is selling merchandise to support our program! Be sure to look for our merchandise table to commemorate this memorable event.