Girls on the Run Flint Hills to host 'Be Your Own Superhero' 5K

MANHATTAN, Kan. — Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills will host its fall 5K celebration Nov. 16 at K-State Office Park, marking the culmination of a 10-week program designed to empower young girls through physical activity and life skills education.

The "Be Your Own Superhero" themed 5K begins at 2 p.m. at 1880 Kimball Ave. in Manhattan. The event is open to program participants, their families and community supporters who want to celebrate the achievements of over a hundred girls completing the nationally recognized after-school program.

The day will start at 1 p.m. with Star Power Hour, an opportunity for Girls on the Run participants, coaches and community runners to visit booths that will ignite their star power and help them prepare for the 5K. Program participants are required to check in with their coaches by 1:30 p.m., 30 minutes before the race begins.

Join us for the 'Be Your Own Superhero' Girls on the Run 5K Celebration, organizers said. This event honors the courage of GOTR girls and celebrates their achievements and potential. It's not just any 5K—it's a chance to embrace your inner superhero, be yourself, and experience joy.

Girls on the Run is a youth development program serving girls in third through eighth grade. The Manhattan-based nonprofit uses a curriculum that combines running and physical activity with dynamic discussions designed to develop social, emotional and physical skills.

The program features fun, evidence-based lessons that inspire girls to build their confidence, kindness and decision-making skills while teaching the important connection between physical and emotional health.

Trained volunteer coaches lead small teams throughout the 10-week season, guiding participants through activities and discussions that promote healthy habits and emotional well-being. The program emphasizes building future female leaders while providing girls with tools to navigate life experiences.

Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills has impacted over 2,800 young women in the Flint Hills region since its founding and continues working to break down participation barriers to make the program accessible to all girls.

The organization, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2024, is headquartered in Manhattan and serves communities throughout the Flint Hills area.

Registration for the 5K is available online through Nov. 15, with day-of-event registration also available. Pricing varies by age group and registration date. Program participants and coaches are already registered for the 5K and should not register separately.

For more information or to register for the 5K event, visit GOTRFlintHills.org.