The following announcement was provided by Girls on the Run:
Following a successful spring season, Girls on the Run returned to Watertown this fall with a roster of 20 girls in grades 3, 4 and 5. The girls were from the Hosmer, Lowell, Cunniff and St. Agnes Schools. The eight-week program began on Sept. 24th and culminated in a celebratory 5K at the Boston Common on Nov. 16th.
Over the span of the eight weeks, the girls not only built stamina and running techniques but also learned valuable life skills like goal setting, positive self-talk, and teamwork; all parts of the Girls on the Run curriculum.
Another aspect of the program was completing a community impact project. After a team discussion and vote, the girls decided to focus on the environment. As part of their project they wrote thank you letters to the Watertown DPW, school custodians and school administrators, for helping keep the parks, outdoor spaces and schools clean and well maintained. They also made signs promoting recycling, composting, saving electricity and using reusable water bottles.
The coaching staff, of seven, was made up of community volunteers, members of the Recreation Department and a Hosmer school teacher. The diverse background of the coaching staff ensured that the girls received a well-balanced program focusing on gaining self-confidence, increasing their fitness level, tackling difficult things and making new friends.
The best part of the season came on November 16 th when all the girls took part in an official 5K on the Boston Common. Using their “I can” power, and running at their “happy pace,” a total of 3425 participants, including all the members of the Watertown Rec/Hosmer team crossed the finish line with enthusiasm and confidence. A highlight of the day was Alice Keary, a fourth grader from the Hosmer School, completing the course in 22 minutes and 44 seconds, averaging a 7:19/mile pace.
The season would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts of multiple supporters including the coaches, the Watertown Recreation Department, and the Hosmer School administration, office staff and extended day supervisors. The girls also sported pink winter caps on race day, generously provided by Watertown Savings Bank.
Another spring season is planned and will begin in April, stay tuned for more details and registration information after the new year.