An event marshal holds up a sign at the Girls on the Run (GOTR) 5K event on the University of Massachusetts Amherst campus.
Girls on the Run Western Massachusetts celebrated the conclusion of their spring program with a 5K “Celebration” run today, June 8, at UMass Amherst.
The event marked the region’s 10th annual GOTR 5K, drawing around 4,000 participants and volunteers to the commonwealth’s flagship campus.
Event marshals like the one pictured are some of the many volunteers that make runs like this possible. Volunteers help keep runners and walkers on course, distribute snacks, operate water stations, and brighten the atmosphere with signs, cheers, and encouragement.
The last event, held Fall 2024, was at Westfield State University, and the Spring 2024 event was at Western New England University.
Girls on the Run combines physical activity with social and emotional learning, guiding local 3rd–8th graders through uplifting lessons all spring or fall, with the 5K as their season finale.
For many girls, and their families, crossing that finish line is a meaningful milestone, symbolizing confidence gained through accomplishment.
