Girls on the Run Celebrates Graduation with Thrilling 5K Event

The Girls on the Run Greater Piedmont program successfully concluded its fall season with a vibrant graduation 5K event on November 22, 2025, at Salisbury Community Park. Approximately 900 participants—including girls, running buddies, and spectators—came together to celebrate the culmination of their training and personal growth. For many, this marked their first experience with a 5K race, and excitement filled the air as the start time approached.

Among the participants was McKinley Rollins, a 10-year-old from Rockwell Elementary School, who has already completed the event three times. “I know not to sprint, but to keep a steady pace,” she shared, reflecting on her training journey that began in August. Rollins, along with 21 other girls aged 8 to 11, trained twice a week, gaining not only running skills but also valuable life lessons. “I improved my self-esteem and learned conflict resolution,” she added.

Coached by Gina Ritchie, a seasoned participant in the program, Rollins benefited from a supportive environment designed to foster connections among the girls. Ritchie, who has led Girls on the Run programs for 25 seasons, emphasized the holistic approach of the training, which includes service projects and teamwork. “We help the girls bond and support each other,” she stated.

Another participant, Genesis Henry, a nine-year-old from Koontz Elementary, expressed her newfound passion for running and the importance of celebrating others’ achievements. Her coach, Lisha Weeks, who initiated a new group at Koontz, is committed to guiding the girls in both running and personal development. “I am especially happy when helping the girls know that it is OK to make mistakes and teaching them about how to be a good friend,” Weeks said.

The program, founded in 2008 by Jennifer Summers, has grown significantly, with the fall 2025 season bringing together girls from 14 sites across Iredell, Rowan, Davidson, and Forsyth counties. Summers described race day as “exhilarating exhaustion,” noting the months of planning that go into ensuring the event is magical for the participants. “Finishing a 5K and being proud of the work they put in to get to that finish line has me hopeful that each girl realizes she can do lots of hard things,” she explained.

As the event unfolded, Sarah Swertfeger, who serves as the vice chair of the board of directors for Girls on the Run Greater Piedmont, shared her motivations for involvement. “I signed up as a coach to give back to the running community that I feel has done so much for me,” she explained. Her journey reflects the program’s broader impact, teaching life skills that extend beyond running.

The enthusiasm was palpable as Shelli Breadon, the Executive Director of Girls on the Run Greater Piedmont, witnessed the event for the first time. “Seeing each girl cross the finish line and witnessing the pride radiating from their running buddies and coaches is truly unforgettable,” she remarked.

The culmination of the fall season not only celebrated the achievements of the participants but also fostered community spirit, as local runners joined to support the mission of Girls on the Run. Parents interested in enrolling their daughters in the upcoming Spring 2026 season, which begins in February, can find open locations by visiting the program’s website.

As excitement builds for the next season, Ritchie reflected on the day’s success, stating, “The run wasn’t all uphill. It was a great day with perfect weather, all made for a positive experience.” Henry, who relished her first Girls on the Run 5K, summed up the day perfectly: “Being here running with my friends was fun all the way through.”

Girls on the Run Greater Piedmont continues to inspire young girls, encouraging them to realize their potential and build lasting friendships, all while promoting an active lifestyle.