A 5K is 3.1  miles. The GOTR-DC 5K course is a flat 1.55 mile loop where runners will complete two laps.

Registration for the general public opens in the fall and will be open until the day before the 5K at noon. Same-day registration opens the day of the event for families, friends and community runners. If you register early, you will receive early-bird pricing. Same day registration will be available at the event via online credit card payment only.

As a reminder, this is a fun, celebratory event for our participants and not a competitive race. While our fastest 5K participants will complete the course in 25 minutes, most cross the finish line in 30-50 minutes. Everyone who participates is encouraged to walk, roll, push, run or skip at their happy pace!

Girls on the Run - DC Community 5Ks are not timed events.

First, we understand that life happens, and circumstance might make it impossible to attend.

We strongly encourage that all participants attend and complete the 5K, as it is the goal that teams are preparing for all season long! It’s the ultimate opportunity to build confidence through accomplishment. Remember, this is the first 5K event for many – including coaches, participants, friends and family members. Keep in mind that everyone is encouraged to go at a pace that is most comfortable for them. We are in it together!

Yes. Girls on the Run 5K events are for everyone! All participants can walk, run, push or roll safely and at their own happy pace. While the terrain is mostly smooth, there are a few uneven patches, so watch your step and stay safe. Designated parking spots are available.

A Buddy Runner is an individual designated by the council or by the parent/guardian to complete the 5K alongside a program participant during the 5K event, for the entire duration of the course. A background check is required. Deadline for sign-up is Wednesday, November 8, 2023.

Yes! This is encouraged! This is a great way to accomplish a goal together. Please note that parents/guardians are not automatically registered with their participant. They must register and choose "Family member or friend of participant".

Absolutely! Every registered participant who is a part of our program will receive a finisher's medal from their coaches after completing the course. Anyone who is completing the 5K course but who is NOT a program participant will receive a race premium at the packet pick up tent upon checking in.

Yes! Family, friends and community members outside of our program can participate in the event, but must register.

Yes. All 5K registration forms include liability waivers.

You can pick up your packet at the Packet Pick-Up tent on race day. For an additional fee, you can have your bib mailed to you in advance, which will allow you to skip the lines on race day. This option will be available in the 5K registration. 

Coaches will distribute GOTR-DC program participant medals at the team meeting area post-race! 
 

Take the Blue or Orange Line to the Stadium-Armory Metro stop, from there The Fields at RFK is about a 10-minute walk. Coming out of the Metro, head north on 19th St NE. Walk along 19th & C Streets to the pre-race area. Please check WMATA for the latest on potential delays.

Free parking will be available onsite at Lot 6 - use GPS 206 Oklahoma Ave NE. The parking lot in front of the pavilion will be closed to vehicular traffic and you will not be allowed to park inside. ADA parking will be available.

Our 5Ks are scheduled to take place Rain or Shine! However, our goal is for the safety of all the program participants, families, community participants and volunteers. Therefore, if there is severe lighting and thunderstorms in the area, we will have to delay the event by 30 minutes for each lighting spotted in the area.

Note: We can only delay the event for a limited time before we have to cancel due to the timing per our permit with the National Park Service. If we have a severe storm moving through the area, we will have to cancel the race and ensure everyone gets to safety.

All registrations are non-refundable; however, we do allow participants to transfer bib numbers. Please email info@gotrdc.org if you need to transfer your bib.

We will continue to update our policy to be in line with current city guidelines.

Balloons are not allowed at the 5K due to environmental concerns and to help keep the venue clean. We encourage you to celebrate your GOTR-DC participant by creating a fun and colorful sign to show your support!

Strollers and wheelchairs are welcomed on the course. We encourage people who are pushing strollers or wheelchairs to line up at the back of the starting line.

Dogs are permitted to attend the 5K, but are not permitted to run the race. They must be up-to-date on shots and on a non-retractable leash. Owners are required to clean up after their pets at all times. Dogs are NOT permitted on the turf playing fields or the playground.

Some of our efforts to reduce waste include:

- Encouraging expo and race vendors to minimize and recycle packaging 

- Donating unused food to local food banks

- Recycling water bottles