When Olivia Hall first laced up her sneakers for Girls on the Run, she was following in her mom’s footsteps. Six seasons of GOTR and one season of Heart & Sole later, she’s not just a participant—she’s a total pro. From practice to 5K finish lines, Olivia’s journey through the program has been about more than just miles. It’s been about meaningful connections.

“My favorite part wasn’t a single moment,” Olivia shares. “It was the friendships I made and strengthened throughout the program—through practices, running, and races.”

Along the way, she picked up some unexpected life skills too. Stress management? Check. Compromise? Got it. Strengthening friendships? Absolutely. “It taught me how to run with a buddy,” she says. “Sometimes you push to keep up, and other times you slow down to support someone else. And others do the same for you.”

Outside of GOTR, Olivia’s got a full plate—drama club, cross country, singing, academic clubs, and setting her sights on becoming a lawyer or judge. She’s in what she calls the “best year” of middle school, and she’s doing it with a confidence that shines as brightly as her enthusiasm.

How would Olivia sum up her GOTR experience in three words? Fun. Energetic. Enthusiastic. Sounds just like her.

As for the future? “I hope GOTR NJ East continues to grow and reach more kids,” she says.

With role models like Olivia paving the way, we know it will.