Support Girls on the Run

On Thursday, I attended an event for Girl on the Run (GOTR) at the home of Erin Wolf. It was a great opportunity to learn more about the important work of this organization and to meet other women runners. While most of us are familiar with the growing health issues that children face due to the lack of proper eating and physical activity, I was a bit stunned by some of the statistics that Erin shared. Girls that are involved with sports are significantly less likely to engage in harmful activities, like drugs, alcohol, tobacco and sex. They are also more likely to have a strong sense of self-esteem. As a mother of a young girl, these statistics are alarming. I want my daughter to grow up confident, healthy, and happy.

Through its running programs, GOTR fosters self-confidence and a healthy lifestyle among young girls. Girls ages 8 to 13 are eligible to participate. Programs are offered at local schools, YMCAs, and Girls, Inc. sites.

Runners can support GOTR by participating in its Team Tiara program. It’s a great opportunity to train with other runners for the ING Georgia Marathon/Half-Marathon and raise funds for GOTR. Runners of any age, gender, or ability are encouraged to participate. If you’d like to support GOTR through Team Tiara, you can set-up a fundraising page at Active.com. You can also support GOTR by donating at my fundraising page. I'm committed to raising at least $262.

This week’s route is a 3.5-mile run through Piedmont Park and the Ansley Park neighborhood. You can find the route at Map My Run under my group Atlanta Running.

• Start at the Piedmont Park entrance on 10th St. and Charles Allen Dr.
• Turn right on 10th St., heading towards Piedmont Ave.
• Turn right on Piedmont Ave.
• Turn left on 15th St.
• Follow 15th St. to Peachtree Circle
• Turn right on Peachtree Circle
• Turn right on The Prado
• Veer left onto Maddox Dr.
• Turn right on Park Lane
• Cross Piedmont Ave. and enter the park (by the entrance for the Atlanta Botanical Garden)
• Follow the path through the park and end at 10th St. and Charles Allen Dr.