Join Lightning Youth Academy for a free camping retreat designed to refresh the mind, strengthen mental skills for running, and bring families together in nature. This weekend getaway blends outdoor fun with practical tools for athletes and parents to manage stress, build focus, and support healthy performance.

What to expect

• Guided mental-performance sessions for runners: breathing and relaxation techniques, visualization, goal-setting, and routines for pre-race and race-day focus.

• Parent workshops: how to support young athletes’ mental health, encourage resilience, and foster positive motivation without pressure.

• Small-group activities: mindful trail runs, team-building exercises, and guided journaling to process goals and build confidence.

• Community time: campfire discussions where runners and parents can share experiences and learn from each other.

• Service component: everyone helps clean and maintain the camp. Participating in stewardship reinforces respect for nature, builds teamwork, and leaves the site better than we found it.

Benefits

• Mental reset: Time away from screens, schedules, and competition pressure helps reduce burnout, improve mood, and restore motivation.

• Improved focus and coping: Runners learn practical mental-performance tools that translate to calmer races, better concentration, and more consistent training.

• Stronger parent-athlete support: Parents gain strategies to communicate constructively, set realistic expectations, and create a positive environment for growth.

• Community and belonging: Shared experiences build friendships, peer support, and a sense of belonging that improves long-term engagement.

• Life skills and responsibility: Camp cleanup and stewardship instill respect for the environment, responsibility, and teamwork—skills valuable on and off the track.

Logistics

• Free event for Lightning Youth Academy members and families.

• Bring appropriate camping gear, running shoes, water bottle, and a journal or notebook.

• Meals and specific schedule will be provided on registration; participants should be ready to help with light camp maintenance tasks as part of the program.

Join us to recharge, learn mental-performance strategies, and give back to the camp. This retreat is a chance to foster healthier minds, stronger teams, and lasting habits that support success in running and life.