The annual Union-Tribune Race for Literacy returns in May with the Kids Magic Mile on Saturday, May 3, and the Race for Literacy 8K on Sunday, May 4. This event has grown in popularity each year since its inception 17 years ago, and is one of the largest children's fitness event in the state.

For their work in promoting both fitness and reading for school children in San Diego, The San Diego Union-Tribune recently won a Gold Medal in Governor Schwarzenegger's 2007 Governor's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports Spotlight Awards. (For information on how your school can participate in the 2008 Governor's Challenge Competition, click here.)

The Union-Tribune is using the cash portion of the award to further the goal of improving the fitness level of the children in our community by making fitness fun. Here's how:

The 20/20 Club
Parents: Read 20 minutes and run/walk 20 minutes every day with your child. You'll both benefit from the time together and improve your fitness level. If you can't read/walk daily, then try to do three days a week.

The Structure
º A 20/20 Club Commitment Form is available online.
º Parent and child each sign the card and use it to keep track of their reading and running/walking time. 
º Turn in the completed form at the Kids Magic Mile on May 3 at Balboa Park.
º Every child who submits a form will receive a 20/20 Club wristband and a 20/20 Club bookmark, and will also be entered in a drawing for great prizes, including gift cards from local bookstores, movie tickets, tickets to SeaWorld, Legoland, the San Diego Zoo and even a trip for four to Disneyland (including lodging)!

How to get started
Download your Commitment Form and fun training tips now. Ask family, friends and classmates to join in the fun!

The Time Frame
The 20/20 Club starts on April 2 (you can enter as late as April 15) and culminates at the Kids Magic Mile in Balboa Park on May 3.

Bonus
The Kids Magic Mile has a great new component called "Run and Read," which enables schools with 10 or more entrants (kids, parents, teachers) to earn money back ($2 per entry) for their respective schools. Each participating school will receive a final accounting and a check within three weeks of the event. Ask your teacher if your school is participating in the Kids Magic Mile on May 3.