BeYOUtiful Running Club in Ethan Empowers Kids Through Faith and Fitness – Mitchell Republic

ETHAN, S.D. Janae Gustafson always dreamed of being a runner, but she was never the fastest. Today, she channels her passion for running into inspiring young girls to take up the sport, encouraging them to celebrate their achievements no matter the pace.

Gustafson, an Ethan High School graduate, is just one of a handful of mentors, mostly junior and senior high school students, who encourage young runners at Ethan to lace up their running shoes and enjoy the joys of physical activity and personal growth.

Founded in 2015 by parents Angie Mueller and Angie Klock, BeYOUtiful Strides Running Club is a program designed to promote physical health and personal growth among young children.

The club, intended for girls in grades three through six, meets twice a week from September to November. Each session begins with a Bible devotional and character building lesson, followed by 30 minutes of walking and running. Participants also memorize scriptures weekly, a practice designed to inspire them both on and off the course.

“We wanted to create a space where girls could not only learn to run, but also grow in faith and confidence,” Mueller said.

This year the club attracted 55 participants who wanted to reach their potential.

The program culminates with the Sparkle Run, a non-competitive 5K race where each girl is paired with a senior mentor. The race, scheduled for Saturday, November 2, embodies the club’s guiding principle from Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine.”

The success of BeYOUtiful Strides inspired the creation of a parallel program for boys called Pathfinders. Meetings on Tuesday and Thursday mornings focus on leadership and camaraderie. This year 25 boys are taking part. The boys program culminates with the Warrior 5K.

“It’s great to see how the girls’ program has grown to include boys,” Mueller said. “Counting both groups, we have 75 kids participating this year, which is a remarkable achievement for a small town like Ethan.”

Gustafson, the club’s first coach, saw the program grow.

“When we started, it was just me, Angie and a few girls. Now it’s a community event.”

Gustafson’s journey with running reflects the club’s mission. Despite not being the fastest runner, she recently achieved her lifelong dream of running a half marathon, inspired by the determination of the girls she mentors.

“During training, I thought about all the young girls in the running club and how much determination and effort they put in every week,” Gustafson said.

The club’s impact extends beyond physical fitness.

“The running club is not just about running; it teaches these younger girls that their worth depends on Jesus’ love for us,” said junior mentor Rachel Klock.

Mady Raymond, a senior who has been doing this since third grade, now serves as a mentor.

“I strive to be the kind of mentor I would want—one who encourages them and helps them learn how to encourage others,” she said.

Parents noticed positive changes in their children. Fredelle Thomas, whose three daughters and son participate, appreciates how the early morning classes instill healthy habits and foster friendships.

“It gives them healthy habits for life,” Thomas said. “My son jumps out of bed to go to running club.”

Thomas also praised the scripture memorization component.

“In a world full of distractions, this program provides a focused start to the day,” Thomas said.

The club also provided emotional support during difficult times. Jen Klumb shared how the program helped her daughter Tenley cope with a family crisis.

“After a morning run club session, Tenley walked into my class feeling at peace,” Klumb recalls. “She told me that she knew God had her grandfather in His hands. Her whole perspective changed.”

As BeYOUtiful Strides approaches its tenth Sparkle Run, its impact on Ethan is becoming clear. The program not only created runners, but also created a supportive community where young people can develop physically, emotionally and spiritually. Its success has even sparked interest in neighboring communities such as Parkston, where parents are exploring similar initiatives.

“We celebrate every girl who crosses the finish line—we celebrate finish lines, not finish times,” Mueller said.

Jennifer Leiter joined Mitchell Republic in April 2024. She grew up in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where she attended Lincoln High School. She continued her education at South Dakota State University, graduating in December 2000 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. While in college, Leiter worked as a reporter for the college newspaper, The Collegian. During the summer of 2000, she also interned at Anderson Publications in Canistota, South Dakota. After graduation, Leiter continued to reside in the Sioux Falls area and worked as a freelance writer for the Argus Leader for several years.
/Jennifer-Leiter