From a young age, running was a significant part of Inessa Robillard’s life. Inessa’s parents signed her up for Girls on the Run (GOTR) in elementary school and said this initial experience was pivotal in her journey as a runner.
In the program, Inessa recalls receiving bands for each lap completed. This was motivating to her at such a young age and led her to have a positive outlook on running. With a newfound passion for running, Inessa joined cross country in third grade and later joined track.
"[Girls on the Run] brought a lot of positive things into my life,” Inessa says. She shared that it was a comforting environment where she was surrounded by peers of the same age group, which contrasted with the competitive atmosphere of older girls in her cross country and track races.
Inessa ran the GOTR 5K several times with her dad. She says that it was helpful having experience from GOTR when going into her first meets. "It definitely helped me with the racing feeling and managing adrenaline,” she says. “Though it was nerve-wracking being so young compared to others, I was always intrigued by running and determined to reach the level of the older girls."
Her dedication paid off. She competed in the Junior Olympics and the National Championships in track multiple times, which she attributes to her start with Girls on the Run.
Inessa recalls the huddles after GOTR practice, discussing the day's practice with coaches and peers. One of the lessons that still sticks with her today is Happy Pace -- being comfortable where we are and staying at our own pace.
“Even now, at 18, that lesson still stands with me,” Inessa says. “You don't have to worry about what's going on around you—just stay in your lane and you'll get to where you need to be."
Each practice built her confidence and familiarity with running, leading to continuous improvement. She got better, grew more comfortable, and ultimately ran better because she was gaining more confidence.
Inessa hopes that parents and girls try GOTR because of the positive impact, and says that embracing the community aspect of the program is key.
"Whether you're trying to become an athlete or just want to make friends, GOTR gives you access to many people you can learn from and grow with,” Inessa says. “It's a supportive community that emphasizes being okay with where you are, whether you're faster or slower than others. It's a great community to be a part of."
Reflecting on other youth programs, she emphasizes the unique value of Girls on the Run. She feels that GOTR is important for young girls because there’s no judgment and it offers a space that allows you to grow.
"GOTR stands for something so important for young girls—being okay with where you are and being comfortable,” Inessa says. “There's no judgment, always room for improvement. It's a very individualized growth journey within a community."
Inessa is currently in her first year at Louisiana State University, majoring in Kinesiology, and she is a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. While she doesn’t have plans for running competitively at the moment, she will be returning to GOTR SOLA in spring 2025 as a volunteer coach.
Together, we go further! Find your place with Girls on the Run and join as a volunteer coach!
