BOISE, Idaho (KBOI) — Six years ago Grace Jordan Elementary decided to start something new.
Something that would get kids active.
"A program for girls that could keep them busy after school and focus on healthy bodies and being good friends," said school counselor Lindsy Thomas.
The program Girls With Grace began with 12 girls.
Now they have 53.
"I like all the friends that you make while running," said Eleri, a sixth grader. "Like you get to know people and talk to them."
After three years, it was time for a change.
"The boys started saying 'what about us?'" Thomas said.
That gave way to the Jaguar Joggers. They had around 15 boys sign up this year.
"I like how fast you can go and I challenge myself to run long distances," said Raab, a third grader.
The groups work with the YMCA and take part in two 5k races - one at Christmas and the Famous Idaho Potato 5k this past weekend.
"I got second place in my age group which was really fun," said Scarlett, a fourth grader. "I got a free ice cream cone."
The group won't meet in the summer, but with the days growing longer, students say so will their mileage.
"Farther, definitely farther," Raab and Eleri chimed in.
"I think I want to try a little farther," Scarlett said. "Not like a half marathon though because that would be a huge jump."
Thomas said thanks to fundraisers and parents, they are able to keep the price down for all students. It costs $10 for Grace Jordan Elementary students to join.
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