LUTCHER — St. James Parish Hospital is once again partnering to sponsor the Run St. James Challenge and this year many exciting changes — including a brand new medal — are in store.

For the last five years, the hospital has partnered with Chad Weidert and his wife, Susan, founders of the St. James Runners’ Club, to sponsor the Run St. James Challenge in an effort to encourage community children to get up and active. Children up to age 13 who finish at least three of four parish races will receive a new, custom medal designed specifically for this challenge.

In addition, the event is expanding to include parents of children who complete the challenge. If a parent finishes the series with their child, that parent will be awarded during the medal presentation after the last race in the series.

The series options include the 4-H Glow Run (Oct. 5), the St. Michael Fall Festival Run (Oct. 7), the Pumpkin Patch Bridge Run (Oct. 29) and the Bonfire Festival Run (Dec. 10) which is the race that includes the public medal presentation.