Girls on the Run Race

On Sunday, December 4, fifteen Excel third graders (and five of their parents!) completed their first 5K as a part of the inaugural season of Girls on the Run at Excel Academy. Girls on the Run is a national program that aims to foster a positive self-image in young girls through running. Our scholars trained with their coaches twice a week after school for three months, not only developing their running skills but also discussing important topics as a team, such as practicing healthy lifestyle habits, standing up to peer pressure, and having a positive sense of self. The 5K brought together Girls on the Run teams from across DC, Maryland and Virginia on the campus of American University. Each Excel scholar ran with a running buddy and all of our runners crossed the finish line with a smile. Thank you to everyone who made the first season a big success! The girls are already counting the days until the spring season begins in March!