Mathews Outdoor Club and the Mathews Family YMCA are partnering this year to host the Gwynn’s Island Race and Healthy Kids Day together Saturday, April 29, at the Gwynn’s Island Civic League grounds.

“It’s the same audience,” said Christine Johnson, president of MOC, about both events.

The Gwynn’s Island Race is a four-mile run or a 10-mile bike ride, for a cost of $30 each. Those who would like to experience the best of both worlds can sign up for the run/ride duathlon for $50. A little over one-mile fun run that children can participate in is also available and free of charge.

Though the YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day event is not set to start until 10 a.m., there will be child care provided by the organization during the race, which begins at 8 a.m.

Healthy Kids Day, which is a free event, will be from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. and is held to promote the health and well-being of children and families, especially through summer.

According to Sam Parks, director of Healthy Kids Day, there will be a bounce house obstacle course, “first tee” (an introduction to golf for school-aged children), music, food, face-painting and several community organizations, including the Bay School Community Arts Center, present.

The event is absolutely free and no registration is required to attend. The YMCA is “looking to bring everyone out to the island to have fun,” said Buzz Lambert, YMCA Group Vice President of the Upper Peninsula.

Registration for the race is available through mocva.net and closes April 28. All race participants will receive a commemorative T-shirt and finisher medal. Top finishers in the run, ride and duathlon will be recognized along with age group categories for each event.

There is no race day registration.

Both the Gwynn’s Island Race and Healthy Kids Day will be held April 29 rain or shine. The MOC and YMCA are prepared for a great day of health and fitness.

“All we need now is for the weather to hold,” said Johnson.