LUTCHER — St. James Urgent Care is sponsoring the fourth annual Run St. James Challenge, a children’s fitness challenge created by local running enthusiast Chad Weidert.

Chad and his wife Susan, who are active in community fundraisers, are once again motivating children to get fit by offering an award for children ages 14 and under who complete the “Run St. James Challenge.”

Challenge races include: Pumpkin Patch Bridge Run (scheduled Oct. 30) and the Bonfire Festival Run (scheduled Dec. 11th).

As an added incentive, St. James Urgent Care has challenged community youth to “Chase the Rainbow.”

Race medals are displayed on a new, bright ribbon this year and participants meeting the challenge will have a colorful keepsake to commemorate their commitment to health and wellness. Children who have participated in the past will have a collection of four medals with different color ribbons if they meet the challenge.

Chad and his wife Susan are inviting fourth through eighth graders to practice at Gramercy Park on alternating Wednesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 6:45 p.m. Children younger than fourth grade can participate with the presence of a guardian.

Children will be educated on topics such as running/jogging, pace, form and healthy eating. Parents are also encouraged to participate. Signed waivers will be required.

“Like” the River Parish Running Facebook Page for the latest updates and time changes.

“Since 2013, we have not only seen an impressive increase in the number of kids participating in the challenge, but also the number of parents,” Director of Marketing Kassie Roussel said. “We are proud to be a part of a wellness initiative that brings families together for healthy, active fun.”