The GTC Rabbits is the Youth Running Program for the Greenville Track Club. The mission is to provide an opportunity for young people to become involved in the world's oldest fitness endeavor.

The program will be directed and coached by Ashley Lavelle, an experienced middle school, high school, and college cross country and track coach. Ashley is a longtime Greenville Track Club member and is currently serving on the board of directors. Ashley will be accompanied by some amazing volunteer coaches: Alison Parris, Liz Evans, and John Hatfield, who also share a love of running and educating the youth. All coaches/volunteers are safe sport certified and background checked.

Rabbits Fall Session Information:

The Rabbits running group is FREE to Greenville Track Club members! If you are not a GTC member, you can purchase a family membership for $35 here: https://www.greenvilletrackclub.com/membership.html

OTHER DETAILS:

-The Rabbits include ages 7 through 14 years old

-Each child will receive:

* Expert coaching
* Regular group practices
* Rabbits Singlet
* An opportunity to hear from a variety of guest speakers in the community who will discuss proper running form, nutrition, race strategy, stretching/strengthening exercises, etc.

-This fall, our program will focus on cross country running, giving athletes the opportunity to train on trails, grass, and other uneven terrain while building endurance, strength, and confidence. Throughout the season, participants will have the opportunity to compete in local road races, cross country meets, and a designated USATF Cross Country Championship event (details to be announced).

In addition to developing their running skills, athletes will learn the fundamentals of successful distance training. Educational topics throughout the season will include proper training techniques for 5K races, nutrition and fueling for performance, selecting appropriate running shoes, the importance of quality sleep and recovery, and injury prevention strategies. Our goal is to help each athlete become a stronger, healthier, and more knowledgeable runner while fostering a lifelong love of the sport.

-Participants should also bring their enthusiasm for running, proper running shoes, and hydration to each practice.

-It is highly encouraged that parents are present at all running sessions, to assist with child/children should any issues arise.

FOR THE FALL SESSION, THE RABBITS WILL MEET ON MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS AT 5:30PM. Practices will rotate between Cleveland Park, Unity Park, and areas near Furman University. Ashley will email the parents each week with the specific practice location. Please contact Ashley at youthrunning@greenvilletrackclub.com for any specific questions.

COSTS:

$50 or free to current Greenville Track Club members. Adult guardians, if they don't already have one, are encouraged to obtain a GTC family membership before registering to receive the $50 discount. Family memberships $35 for one year. https://runsignup.com/Club/Join/815