The Cheerios Challenge returns to the Covington YMCA on April 18 with a 10K/5K Road Race and 1-mile Fun Run/Walk.

The events will be held at the YMCA on Newton Drive in Covington. The 10K race begins at 7:45 a.m. and the 1-mile fun run/walk will be at 9 a.m., and the 5K at 9:30 a.m. Everyone is encouraged to participate.

The 2009 event marks the eighth year the YMCA has worked in partnership with General Mills and other local businesses to create this community event. "Participation in this event has grown tremendously in such a short time" said Kacie Brown, YMCA Membership Director. "It is a great day for the YMCA and for our community. In 2008, 892 walkers and runners participated and we expect even more in 2009. We appreciate the hard work of our 74 volunteers who come out to make this event possible. The excitement and support around Cheerios Challenge is contagious," said Brown.

The Cheerios Challenge is a part of the YMCA’s annual Healthy Kid’s Day Celebration. For more information call the YMCA at (770) 787-3908 or visit the Y’s Web site at cvy.ymcaalanta.org. Registration forms for the races can be downloaded from cvy.ymcaatlanta.org.

The event is sponsored by Advantage Fire, BB&T, General Mills, Longhorn Steakhouse of Covington, Police Who Care/Covington Police Department and Sunbelt Builders.