My running club so far is a fantastic success. We've had a total of 6 runs (3 weeks) and enthusiasm is still high. The group together has run 488 miles in 6 sessions. Isn't that amazing? Since we run before school, it is important that I get them back to the cafeteria for drinks, snacks, announcement, awards, etc by a particular time. The kids lately have been begging me for "just one more lap." I'm really very proud of them. Several of the kids run 3 miles each time.

Today we had a scavenger hunt similar to the one described on your website.

Here are the items on the list many of which were "borrowed" from the website.

1. Collect 4 leaves form different plants or trees.

2. Find something red.

3. Write down the license plate number of the white car parked in front of the cafeteria. You must stay on the sidewalk!! (My car was parked here)

4. Get the signature of two adults other than Susan.

5. Run to the water fountain near the play equipment and have everyone take a sip.

6. Ask Susan what day her mother's birthday is on. Write it down.

7. Pick two flowers. Each flower must be a different color.

8. Write down the number of papayas on the papaya tree next to building B.

9. Find something smooth.

10. How many windows are there in building A?

11. Collect 3 POGS from Mrs. Hayden.

12. Get an ice cube from someone in the office.

13. Write down the name of the book character painted on the sidewalk closest to the water fountain by the library door.

14. How many cones are there in the pick-up area?

15. What is written on the piece of paper pinned to the coconut tree by the pedestrian overpass?

16. How many benches are there in the bleachers on the far side of the play area?

17. What color socks is Uncle Val wearing today? (trick question: none)

18. How many doors are there in building J?

19. What number is on the trash can by the basketball courts?

20. Where exactly was Aaron and Paul's dad born? Find him and ask him.

The ice cube item was particularly funny as it melts and the kids have to go back more than once to obtain one. Parents have been very supportive and have donated prizes, snacks, and sports drinks.

Our next run will be our celebrity run with a local newscaster following by our obstacle course run. We're really having a great time!

I'm hoping that this Web site will encourage our young people to embrace running, stay healthy and be the best they can be.

Please send us a description of your running program. Help us share with the school and running communities. Please email carol.kids@rodale.com with comments on this article.

If the impetus started by Runner's World continues, 2000-2001 may very well be known as the 'Year of School Running Programs'.