Rising Stars

Presented by SmartStart Pediatrics, The Glastonbury River Runners offer two 10 week training programs each year to encourage youth ages 4 to 13 to get up and move! Let us help your child reach the goal of completing a 5K (3.1 miles) and have a great time doing it! Through this program, we are here to offer your child support, motivation and fun along the way!

Participants in the Rising Stars program post on the jungle gym following their graduation race at the end of their program.

Program Details

Get Ready to Run is offered twice a year, in the spring and fall. Each 10-week session culminates in a 5K (3.1-mile) race. The spring session finishes with the Firecracker 5K, while the fall session culminates in the Race To Fill the Pantry.

Looking to join us?

Registration typically opens a few weeks prior to the start of each session. Check back here for upcoming schedules and sign-up info.

Rising Starts participant doing a happy dance after finishing her program and Firecracker Race.

Meet Our Program Directors

Lindsay Morgan (Left)

Lindsay brings 20 years of experience in early childhood education and a love of running. A GRR board member, she has competed in events ranging from 5Ks to ultramarathons and 70.3 Ironman triathlons.

Megan Guthrie (Right)

Megan is a certified group fitness instructor and personal trainer who joined GRR in 2024. She has enjoyed participating in GRR’s Rising Stars program alongside her two daughters and is excited to be part of the GRR community.