It all began with a vision.

Originally envisioned by Grant Allen, MD, FAAP, a member of the Alabama Chapter-American Academy of Pediatrics, the Grand Pediatric Pentathlon has evolved into the signature fundraising event for Reach Out and Read-Alabama during the Alabama Chapter-American Academy of Pediatrics' Spring Meeting.

Since its inception in 2014, the event has successfully raised over $212,000 for sites across the state. This funding supports our pediatric healthcare providers in ensuring that children and families have access to age-appropriate, high-quality books, promoting early engagement with language and intellectual curiosity.

Our aim is to provide each family with a book at every well-child visit, totaling over 177,000 books annually. The Grand Pediatric Pentathlon has been crucial to this mission!

Taking place at The Lodge at Gulf State Park each spring, the event aims to raise funds during the Alabama Chapter-American Academy of Pediatrics Spring Meeting. The Chapter’s Spring Meeting is an annual regional event that draws more than 100 Alabama physicians and their families as well as 50 exhibitors from across the state and Gulf Coast. During the Pentathlon, participants (attendees, family members and vendors) will have the opportunity to register and compete in five different events (kayaking, walking/running, bicycling, swimming, and reading) available at The Lodge at Gulf State Park.

Past participants share why they participate in the Grand Pediatric Pentathlon

Click to learn more about our 2026 event.

Click to see photos from our 2025 event.

Click to learn more about the 2024 event.

Click to learn more about our 10th annual Grand Pediatric Pentathlon!

Click to learn more about the 2022 event.

Click to see photos from our 2021 event!

Click to learn more about the 2019 event.

Click to see photos from our 2018 event!

Click to learn more about our 2017 event.

Click to see more from our inaugural Grand Pediatric Pentathlon!