The Covington Family YMCA had a record setting 1,365 participants in its Covington Cheerios Challenge event on Saturday, April 19. This event would not be possible without many people volunteering behind the scenes.

There were 121 volunteers serving at the Covington Cheerios Challenge. Volunteers were posted throughout the race route serving in significant roles. There were 18 volunteers at four different water stations, 43 volunteers directing runners at intersections, volunteers at registration and handing out water and fruit.

Capt. Ken Malcom of the Covington Police Department has volunteered at the Covington Cheerios Challenge for all 13 years the YMCA has held this event. Capt. Malcom leads the team at the finish line each year, including yearly returners such as Mark McGiboney and his family, Arnold and Leta Sills, Jeff Dollar, Barbara and Al Rivers, Doug Bolton, Kelly Tompkins, David Cleveland and Linda Brown. Volunteer Coordinators Lydia Parker & Debby Boykin work months prior to the race to get volunteers into place and prepped for their important jobs.

The City of Covington Police Officers led by Lt. Al Miller and the Newton County Radio Club were along the route making certain participants were safe. Communication for the race route was provided by amateur radio operators from the Newton County Radio Club.

The Covington Family YMCA wishes to thank all the volunteers, Covington Police Officers and Radio Club members.

“The Y is thankful for a wonderful community that supports events like the Covington Cheerios Challenge through volunteering and participating. We thank all the volunteers and those who show their support by participating. It is always a huge community effort. We are already looking forward to next year,” YMCA Membership Director Kacie Brown said.