2026 Frederick Running Festival with Girls on the Run

WHAT IS GIRLS ON THE RUN? Girls on the Run (GOTR) offers programming designed for all girls to build confidence, increase their level of physical activity, and learn essential life skills. Our research-based curriculum creatively combines movement with confidence-building lessons and activities, providing an after-school program for 3rd through 8th grade girls. With programming that inspires girls of all backgrounds and abilities to recognize their individual strengths, participants build connection and community in a welcoming team setting. They explore topics including emotions, expressing empathy, and standing up for themself and others all while being in a safe and judge-free space with their peers. Their season culminates with a 5K celebration, where girls experience confidence and unstoppable strength as they cross the finish line. All Girls on the Run 5K participants are encouraged to go at their own pace, their Happy Pace.   WHAT IS A SOLEMATE? GOTR SoleMates are inspired and driven athletes that want to build community through their shared passion of supporting Girls on the Run while training to complete your event of choice at the Frederick Running Festival! As a SoleMate, not only do you advance the powerful Girls on the Run mission but by raising critical funds, you enable Girls on the Run to serve more girls across western Maryland. The dollars you raise will have a direct impact on your community and will serve as a model to the future generation that she can do hard things! WHY BECOME A SOLEMATE? Support with every dollar raised and mile loggedThe opportunity to earn Girls on the Run branded apparel and swagA personalized online fundraising page making raising funds easy and funAccess to resources that take the work out of fundraisingA team at Girls on the Run that can provide one-on-one help and support, cheering you on as you hit each milestone along the wayA community of other SoleMates, working towards the same goals and encouraging you along your way!