5K Information

Expect a Crowd

The GOTR 5K is large –  there will be 1,400 participants on the course and thousands of spectators and volunteers. Like any large event, parking is at a premium. Follow the directions outlined in the Event Guide for parking, arrival, check-in, and so on.

Expect a Party Atmosphere

Unlike most 5Ks, where you just show up and run, the GOTR 5K is a party celebrating the hard work of all the girls. Pre-race time is for signing shirts, getting crazy hair-dos at the Goody Happy Hair Station, getting tattoos, warming up with their teams and having fun. This is part of the excitement and you don’t want to cut this activity time short. And don’t forget your camera!

Expect Lots of Excitement— But Go Your Own Pace

As part of that excitement, it’s very tempting for GOTR girls to run faster than they can maintain to keep up with other runners. Resist this temptation. Run your own race, and maintain the pace at which you have trained. It’s OK to run faster later on in the race, but your experience will be much more pleasant and you’ll get to the finish faster if you’ll move slowly at first.

Expect a Challenge — Focus on the Scenery, Your Friends and the Fans

Most experienced runners agree that the first mile is the biggest challenge, which is why they warm up. Concentrate on breathing regularly and deeply. Try to ignore any initial discomfort by enjoying the scenery, the fellowship of other participants, and those cheering on the sidelines. Hosting our 5K at a scenic location is an important planning strategy in providing an interesting diversion for GOTR girls.

Expect a Water Stop

At the halfway point there will be a water stop. Volunteers will have cups filled with water for you to take as you run by. If you think you’ll need additional water, consider carrying a small water bottle with you.

Expect Volunteers to Guide You

Don’t worry if you’re behind the lead runners by a considerable distance. You will not get lost. Volunteers are placed at critical places to give directions and keep you on course. Keep moving at your own pace.

Expect Food and Water at the Finish Line

There will be snacks at the finish line, possibly including bananas, apples, bagels and granola bars.

Expect to be Moved by the Experience!

The GOTR 5K is an unforgettable and life-affirming event for all involved.

“I cried when my daughter finished, nobody in our family has ever run a 5K.” – Bell  (Papillion) Parent

“My daughter accomplished so much in this season – and seeing her do the 5K and the difference in her made me cry – it was amazing!”
Black Elk (Omaha) Mother

1. Like any road race, IT WILL BE CROWDED at the start. It takes a while for the crowd to thin out. Be patient and move forward as best you can. It may take you several minutes before you reach the official “starting line” and that’s ok.

2. When the race starts move at your own pace in as much of a straight line as the traffic permits. This will allow anyone behind you to pass you without wondering where you’re going.

3. Do not push or shove runners out of your way.

4. Be aware of other runners.

5. Try to stay out of the way of faster runners.

6. Just like driving, stay to the right and pass on the left.

7. Enjoy the experience and don’t be afraid to interact with other runners.

8. At the water stop, DON’T COME TO A STANDSTILL. As you pass the water station, grab some water from the table or the outstretched hand of a volunteer and keep moving. If you intend to stop to drink your water, go ahead, but move to the side of the trail. Try to toss the cup to the side of the race route so runners behind you don’t have to run through an obstacle course of crushed cups.

9. As you approach the finish line, some runners will kick it up a notch. Be aware of runners coming up behind you as you approach the finish chute. While it’s not acceptable to push someone out of the way, passing up until the last moment is allowed and even expected.

10. At the finish line, there will be food and water provided. Please move through the line then find a place out of the way of the finish area to clear the area for the runners coming behind you.

11. Find a place to cheer on the remaining runners.

12. As often as you can, look each volunteer in the eye (water stop volunteers, traffic monitors, course monitors, etc.) and say thank you! Remember that the event would not be possible without them! Also acknowledge police officers who are directing traffic as well as they’re working to keep you safe.