Girls on the Run of Montgomery County will host its annual GOTR FilmFest on Thursday, featuring independent short films and guest speakers to support its scholarship fund.
The Rockville-based nonprofit serves over 4,000 girls yearly, providing financial assistance, distributing hundreds of pairs of shoes, and promoting empowerment and healthy habits through physical activities and discussions.
At the end of each season, a celebratory 5K run is held.
“Having been both a participant and a coach, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative the Girls on the Run experience is,” said Bridget O’Hara, GOTR of Montgomery County coach and member of the GOTR of Montgomery County Advisory Council. “The program’s focus on building self-esteem and confidence in young women is invaluable. Lessons I learned as a participant continue to resonate with me today, and as a coach, I was constantly inspired by the emotional intelligence and strength of the girls I worked with. I still walk away from every lesson in awe of the emotional intelligence and strength of the girls around me.”
Three films will be screened at this year’s GOTR FilmFest, including one created by a student from Montgomery County Public Schools:
Little Giant: In this film, a young girl feels small and unimportant due to her older sister’s actions. She finds validation by confronting a giant robot that is terrorizing her street. Directed by Sean Foy, the film features his daughters in key roles. Additionally, Sean Foy has provided a video add-on in which he discusses his inspiration and the film’s themes.
Sports: The Unequal Divide: This documentary-style film is created by a local Montgomery County student filmmaker. It explores the impact of family economics on sports participation and highlights the inequalities young athletes face. The film sheds light on how financial barriers can limit access to sports.
Finding Traction: The film tells the inspirational story of ultra runner Nikki Kimball as she strives to become the fastest person in history to run America’s oldest hiking trail, the 273-mile Long Trail. The documentary examines what drives her to undertake such an incredible challenge, following Nikki’s journey from training and racing in the Rocky Mountains to her record attempt through Vermont’s beautiful yet challenging Green Mountains. Throughout the film, Nikki’s crew and support team provide an intimate portrayal of the courage, grit, and passion behind her attempt. Interviews with leading evolutionary biologists, including Bernd Heinrich, author of “Why We Run,” offer insights into the science and psychology behind Nikki’s remarkable race against time.
“Events like GOTR FilmFest keep Girls on the Run affordable and keep Girls on the Run within Montgomery County,” said Elizabeth Richards, President of the GOTR of Montgomery County Advisory Council, a group of young professionals who support the mission of Girls on the Run. “We are committed to removing financial barriers so every girl who wants to participate in Girls on the Run can. The money raised from the GOTR FilmFest funds scholarships so girls can enroll in the program, provides running shoes for participating girls who need them, and ensures coaches receive first aid [and] CPR training.”
GOTR FilmFest 2025 will be held on Thursday, February 27, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Suburban Hospital Auditorium in Bethesda. For more information and tickets, visit girlsontherunofmoco.org.
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