With the RCMP Girls' Run for Fun about to start its fifth season, Linda Parker is not only looking forward to a new flock of young women joining the program but also to many others returning for another round of both lacing up their shoes and learning how to make smart decisions.
"It's been fun over the years watching some of these young girls grow into very promising young women," Parker said Thursday.
While she enjoys seeing them progress as runners over the seven-week period the program lasts, it's as much about providing some guidance and helping the girls mature.
"If we help them make a healthy life choice, then it's completely worth it," Parker said. "There are so many temptations in life and especially as they go through high school there will be so many unhealthy temptations...and running is almost the aside."
Aimed at girls ages 10 to 15 years old, the program comes free of charge and begins Tues., May 5 at the Fort George Park band shell, 4 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. It continues every Tuesday and Thursday at the same time and location until Thurs., June 18.
Then, on Sat., June 20, they celebrate with a picnic and a five-kilometre run around Fort George Park.
Each session begins with a speaker who will talk about such issues as drug and alcohol awareness, social media safety, nutrition and developing self-esteem.
Over 50 girls participated in last year's version and not all of them were runners.
"Some of the girls really don't run," Parker said. "The best they can muster is a walk and that's OK too."
Although they try to challenge the girls and instill exercise as a habit, the emphasis is on fun.
"And, of course, you can imagine, with so many girls, they meet some new friends and develop some great lasting friendships," Parker said.
Registration packages are available at community policing office at the Prince George RCMP detachment at 455 Victoria Street, or by emailing Parker at [email protected].
For more information contact Parker at 250-561-3319 or Krista Levar at 250-561-3373.
