Girl Scouts Host Inaugural ‘Tough Cookie’ 5K At Camp Edey

BAYPORT, NY — Dozens of girls, families and community supporters took to the trails at Camp Edey on Saturday for Girl Scouts of Suffolk County’s inaugural “Tough Cookie” 5K Run & Family Fun Walk.

The event featured a competitive 5K race through Camp Edey’s wooded, lakeside trails, along with a 1-mile Family Fun Walk. The day also included games, crafts, music, yoga, face painting and other family activities.

“It is so important that kids get outdoors, and our camp programming helps girls step away from their technology, get outside and just be kids again,” Tammy Severino, president and CEO of Girl Scouts of Suffolk County, said. “It gives a tremendous sense of self, allows them to explore and conquer new challenges and tap into a creative part of themselves.”

Among the 5K category winners were Olivia Pearl, 13, of Hauppauge; Ella Mulienburg, 14, of Hauppauge; and Ella Schoeppler, 13, of Shoreham. All 5K participants received a commemorative “Tough Cookie” medal.

The race’s name was inspired by Girl Scouts’ signature annual cookie fundraiser. Girl Scout Cookies, including the new Exploremores cookie, were available during the event.

Event sponsors included Stony Brook Medicine, Sunshine Physical Therapy, Executive Landscapes, BSI, Campbell’s Bakery, The Pizzeria and Michael Starrantino.

Proceeds from the run and walk will support Girl Scouts of Suffolk County programs, including leadership development, STEM education, entrepreneurship opportunities, scholarships, outdoor adventure experiences and camp programming for girls throughout Suffolk County.