Perry Elementary, Middle School students participate in Girls on the Run 5K

The 15th Annual Girls on the Run 5K event was held on Sunday, May 19 at the historic Iowa Capitol Complex, bringing together over 2,000 participants from across the state. Students from Perry Elementary and Perry Middle School participated in the event that celebrated the achievements of young girls who have completed the Girls on the Run program, a nationwide initiative that promotes self-confidence, health, and positive relationships through running. The sunny weather and enthusiastic crowds made for a perfect day of running, fellowship, and celebration.

Mary Hillman, who has led the Girls on the Run program at Perry Elementary School, collaborated with Megan Maylum, who led the middle school program. 14 elementary students and their adult running partners completed the race successfully.

"Watching these girls cross the finish line is incredibly inspiring," Hillman said. "They have shown dedication, resilience, and an amazing spirit of teamwork throughout the program. This event is not just about running; it's about empowering young girls to believe in themselves and their limitless potential."

10 middle school students and their adult running partners ran the 5K wearing orange ribbons in honor of Ahmir Jolliff.

Since its inception, the Girls on the Run 5K has grown into a large event, fostering a supportive environment for girls to achieve their goals. The program’s approach combines physical training with lessons on life skills, helping girls navigate their world with confidence. The 15th anniversary of the 5K not only marked the success of this year’s participants but also highlighted the positive impact the program has had on countless girls over the years.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Perry Elementary, Middle School students participate in Girls on the Run 5K