Summertime family fun run in Leader
By Joan Janzen
It was hot and sunny on Saturday morning when runners took off on a 3 km run in Leader on July 20th. The Girls Gone Gazelle group in Leader invited everyone to join the Summertime Family Fun Run.
Coach Laura Henderson said, “Everyone was so supportive, so we decided to give back to the community with a free event everyone could join.” Girls Gone Gazelle is an 8-week program that runs from May to June. “It’s a thank you for everyone being part of a good season this year.”
25 participants came out for the Color Run at Leader. Local EMS came out to join the fun and keep everyone safe. SUBMITTED
Over thirty people kicked off the 3 km run at 10:00 a.m. at Scott’s Fine Foods, then ran to the local ball diamond and back again. It was a route that avoided traffic and kept the youngest runners safe.
To beat the heat, there were water sprinklers from start to finish, including two water stations and sprinklers at the ball diamonds. Most of the runners wore white attire, which highlighted the colours they received at each station, where they were sprinkled with coloured powder. Upon completion of the race, each runner received a medal, a free slush from Scott’s Fine Foods, and a cookie from Leader Subway.
The 21 girls who participated in the 8-week program had a blast during the 2024 season. “We had ten coaches; at least six adult coaches as well as junior coaches,” Laura said. Girls who participated in previous years come along as coaches to help in the mission of females inspiring females. “It’s been super rewarding to be a part of it over the last four years.”
During the program, the girls run, play games, do crafts, and socialize. It’s a time to get together and build their confidence.
“I always tell them - everyone runs at a different pace. You’re a team, and the goal is to run, challenge yourself and do your best,” Laura said.
On Saturday morning, all the runners experienced the personal challenge and team camaraderie that the Girls Gone Gazelle group enjoys.