The course for a 5K is 3.1 miles. 

5K course and site maps coming soon!

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!

Start times are coming soon!

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. Our council has a safety plan in place, which trains staff and volunteers on how to respond during an emergency or incident.

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. 

Every program participant at the 5K must run alongside a Running Buddy. A Running Buddy is an adult (18+, or a sibling 15+) of their choosing who is responsible for encouraging, motivating, and keeping them safe on the 5K course and throughout the day. Download our 5K training plan here!  

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

Absolutely! Every registered participant who completes the 5K will receive a medal.

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

Maps and more info coming soon!

A site-based 5Kis an event held at a location chosen by your coaching team. The coaching team will organize and host a smaller-scale 5K, determining the most suitable loaction for the event. Girls on the Run-Chicago supports these events by providing a 5K kit with all the materials and resources needed to enusre the event is both successful and memorable to everyone involved.

Yes. All 5K registration forms include liability waivers. This applies to both large-scale and site-based.

Yes! As this is the highlight of the season, there will be multiple activity stations! 

Nope!

5K Volunteer FAQ coming soon!

Yes, there will be a private space available.  It will not have power or refrigeration.