If you’re looking for unique entertainment in Dublin this summer, fun is literally a hop, skip and jump away.

Watch more than 1,000 young competitors participate in the annual Dublin Kiwanis Club’s Frog Jump competition. The event begins at 10 a.m. June 26 at Coffman Park, 5200 Emerald Pkwy.

Participants in the frog jump are divided according to age groups, ranging from 6 years old up to 13 years old. While the older competitors have the opportunity to advance through a number of rounds, the younger competitors aren’t competing for the finals, but are just having fun with the help of their parents.

“In those cases, sometimes it’s more fun to watch to watch the parents,” says Clay Rose, chairman of The Kiwanis Club of Dublin.

In this competition, the young jockeys race the frogs against each other in what the club refers to as a display of “amphibious athleticism.” Three playoff rounds and another three final championship rounds help determine the winner.

In the elimination rounds, there are two rings painted in the grass, one inside the other. The competitors line up around the inner circle and face outwards. To advance, frogs must jump to the outside ring first. However, eliminated participants are welcome to reenter the competition as many times as they want.

“The prizes range from toys, iPods, bicycles and trophies,” Rose says. “It really depends on the generosity of our sponsors and local businesses. However, it’s fun for the kids, and the prizes always add a little more excitement to the competition.”

For prospective participants, frogs are normally untrained and provided on the day of the race.

“I don’t know if they eat any special kinds of insects, but a lot of these frogs don’t know what they’re in for until the day of race, so they don’t have a chance to prepare,” Rose says.

This annual event began more than 40 years ago, and has since become a charming tradition that many families and other spectators look forward to each year. Not only does this event represent the Kiwanis Club’s reputation as an organization, but Rose adds it also “is intended to be a day for everyone to come together at the park and just have fun.”

The frog jump event also features other attractions, including sack races and bouncy ball races, inflatable rides, a dunk tank and treats provided by Dairy Queen.

In addition to offering a number of services to the Dublin area, the Kiwanis Club also hosts several community events, including the Easter Egg Hunt and Frog Jump contest. For more information, visit www.dublinkiwanis.com.

Marianne Manzler is a contributing writer for Dublin Life.