Area youth are invited to come out to compete in the Aquafina Major League Baseball Pitch, Hit & Run local competition in Maricopa.

Pitch, Hit & Run is a national program that encourages local youth participation in America's favorite pastime and emphasizes the fun of baseball competition.

The competition will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on Sunday, May 18 at Pacana Park.

Pitch, Hit and run provides boys and girls ages 7 to 14 a free opportunity to showcase their excellence in the core baseball skills of pitching, hitting and running. Competitors have the chance to advance through four levels of competition, including the team championships at Major League ballparks and the national finals at the 2008 MLB All-Star Game.

Registration will be held at 10 a.m. on-site the day of the competition. Late registrations will not be accepted. Participants must provide a copy of their birth certificate and have a parent and/or guardian complete a registration/waiver form prior to the start of the competition. Age classification is as of July 17 of the current year. Metal spikes and open-toe shoes will not be allowed and participants are encouraged to bring their own water bottles.

For more information or to obtain a registration form call the Maricopa Parks and Recreation Department at 520/568-9098.