Despite strong winds, Wilton’s Fit Girls will hold their annual 5K race/walk in Wilton on October 12th. Rebecca Richard/Franklin Journal
WILTON — The 9th Annual Fit and Fun 5K was held Oct. 12 at the Lake Wilson boat launch, with proceeds supporting the nonprofit Fit Girls program. Participants gathered at 10:30 a.m. to take part in raffles and events where they could win hats and other goods.
Cascade Brook School fifth-graders Annika Bjorn and Scarlett Kilgannon are the first active Fit Girls to cross the finish line, said Carly R. Erickson, executive director of Fit Girls at Wilton. , said that the two ran with smiles and joy. Mt Blue High School students Nora McCourt, Maya Kellett, Astrid Jones and Lucy Knowles volunteered to lead the pre-race warm-up, running alongside and encouraging the young girls.
Community School Unit 9 teacher Sarah Reynolds took part with her sons Julian and Fletcher, who came second overall. Reynolds also organized and ran a local women’s group that donated to the nonprofit organization Fit Girls.
Noah Siviero ran with his brother Audrey and took first place in the girls 11-12 age group. Parents Jen and Gabe Siviero also volunteered, with Jen coordinating efforts to bring back former Fit Girls as role models.
In an email interview, Jen Siviero said how meaningful it is for her family to participate in events like this. “Over the years, our family has participated in many community races, and each time we leave with the same positive feelings of excitement and connection to our community,” she wrote. “This happens whether we’re participating, volunteering or just spectating. This race in particular is where kids learn the importance of individual exercise and healthy body movement. We can help you focus not only on sexuality, but also on encouraging others to take on their own amazing challenges.”
She explained how the out-and-back course design along Lake Wilson encouraged runners to cheer each other on and foster camaraderie. “It’s great to see new runners get excited when they see their friends on the way back to the finish line, and then see those same friends return the encouragement at the finish line,” Siviello said.
Siviero also highlighted the impact that programs like Fit Girls have on building confidence and fostering healthy habits in young girls. “I’ve seen so many girls how much more fun running can be when you have a community of other girls and women cheering you on,” she said. “Most of these girls have never run a 5K race before, and it’s amazing to see the pride on their faces when they realize they are stronger than they thought.”
As a volunteer, Siviero worked to bring back former Fit Girls participants and serve as role models for younger runners. “I feel strongly about the importance of providing these girls with positive role models that are better than the strong, successful teenage girls that have come before them,” she said. Ta. “Empowering and encouraging high school girls as models and building self-esteem in young girls is really beneficial for both groups.”
Jen Civiero and Gabe Civiero’s commitment to the Fit Girls program extends beyond race day, she said. “Fit Girls aims to provide a positive environment and healthy lifestyle, both physically and mentally, in a way that removes many of the barriers that often impede this type of lifestyle and personal growth. We’re investing in our girls,” Siviero explained. “We are pleased to be part of this program’s fundraising efforts to continue to influence girls as future leaders in their communities and, hopefully, as lifelong runners.”
For more information or to donate, visit fitgirlsofwiltonmaine.org. Since its founding in 2012, the nonprofit has reached more than 1,100 girls, including homeschooled students, by providing free after-school programs designed to boost self-confidence and promote healthy habits. We have provided services.
Despite strong winds, Wilton’s Fit Girls will hold their annual 5K race/walk in Wilton on October 12th. Rebecca Richard/Franklin Journal
Fit Girls participants excitedly begin their race at the start line of the 9th Annual Fit and Fun 5K in Wilton on October 12th. Rebecca Richard/Franklin Journal
On Oct. 12 in Wilton, runners eager to race and support the nonprofit’s mission of promoting fitness and confidence in young girls prepare to kick off the Fit Girls 5K Race. Rebecca Richard/Franklin Journal
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