The FAB 5K Challenge Program runs in April (starts April 6, 2026) through mid‑June in Hamilton, Ontario and is organized by Fit Active Beautiful. Designed for youth in grades 6–8 who identify as female, this is a free, coach‑led 12‑week running and life‑skills program that pairs progressive training with goal‑setting and resilience work.

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Participants and volunteer female coaches meet once a week for a 90‑minute session that combines running basics with games and group activities. Each session includes a meet-and-greet and icebreaker, warm up, running drills, games, cool down, a healthy snack, and a guided goal‑setting discussion. Across the 12 weeks participants also have opportunities to take part in three local community running events with their coaches.

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What sets FAB apart is its focus on both physical activity and positive youth development: sessions explicitly teach goal‑setting while building peer friendships and coach relationships that support confidence, competence, caring, connection and character. The program removes common barriers — it is free, provides a FAB training shirt, a goal‑setting journal, a new pair of running shoes, healthy snacks, and covers entry and transportation to program events — so participants can focus on training and personal growth.

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Registration is handled through Race Roster and eligibility is limited to individuals in grades 6–8 who identify as female and live within three kilometres of a program location. Coaches and families can find application and registration links from Fit Active Beautiful; spots fill up quickly so early registration is recommended.

• Weekly sessions meet at Hamilton community recreation centres including Dominic Agostino Riverdale Community Centre, Bennetto Community Centre, Sir Wilfrid Laurier Recreation Centre, Sir Winston Churchill Recreation Centre, Central Memorial Recreation Centre, Westmount Recreation Centre, BGC Hamilton‑Halton (Ellis Ave), Bernie Morelli Recreation Centre, and Norman Pinky Lewis Recreation Centre
• Each session is 90 minutes and includes warm‑up, running drills, games, cool down, a snack, and a goal‑setting discussion
• Across the program participants and coaches have the opportunity to join three local community running events; entry and transportation to those events are provided

• Free, fully supported program: Twelve weeks of training plus a training shirt, goal journal, a new pair of running shoes, healthy snacks, and event entry/transportation included
• Life‑skills built in: Each 90‑minute session includes guided goal‑setting and resilience activities alongside running drills and games
• Coach‑led weekly sessions: Participants meet with volunteer female coaches once a week for structured practice and mentorship
• Community race experience: Program includes participation in three local community running events during the 12 weeks
• Low‑barrier eligibility: Program is free and aimed at girls in grades 6–8 who live within 3 km of a program location