There’s a festive 5K hosted by Fleet Feet Northern NJ in partnership with ASICS in early December and all the proceeds will go toward Girls on the Run New Jersey (GOTR), a nonprofit that helps empower young girls through running and mentorship. Using an experience-based curriculum that integrates running and physical activity, GOTR works with girls in grades 3-8 at various locations throughout NJ.
The holiday 5K on Sunday, December 7th invites walkers and runners of all ages to hit Overpeck Park in Ridgefield Park dressed in holiday attire like Santa hats, reindeer antlers, and holiday sweaters. Prizes will be awarded for the most festive costumes, and families, teams, and stroller-pushers are all welcome to join. Finishers will be rewarded with cookies and cocoa.
“Fleet Feet is excited to bring our community together to celebrate the season and support Girls on the Run’s mission to inspire and empower young females,” says Nic Baxter, Fleet Feet Northern NJ Training Program Director and longtime Girls on the Run coach. “Running helps these girls discover their confidence, build friendships, and find joy in movement.”
All proceeds from the Holiday Hustle will benefit Girls on the Run New Jersey, and Fleet Feet Northern NJ will match all donations to double the impact. Fleet Feet offers personalized service and expert sneaker fittings at its locations throughout the country. Its NJ locations are in Ridgewood, Summit, Westfield, Morristown and Somerville.
The benefits of running for young girls go far beyond physical fitness, according to a University of Minnesota study. Research shows that Girls on the Run participants demonstrate stronger development in areas like competence (feeling effective), confidence (positive self-image), connection (healthy relationships).
The Holiday Hustle has also drawn support from local partners including NBx Running & Personal Training, Spear PT, Alliance Orthopedics, Restore Hyper Wellness, Levato Eyewear, Morris Sport and Spine, and Franklin Lakes Chiropractic.
The 5K walk or run is set for December 7 at 9:30 am at Overpeck Park. To register for the run or walk for kids or adults or to sign up for a local training program, click here.
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