The Wimmera Heart Challenge was organised for the first time last year by Stawell resident Jackie Peacock. Jackie started the Wimmera Heart Challenge in memory of her father Russell Peacock, who passed away without warning from a heart attack, aged 46.

She wants to get 'people moving' and educate them about the importance of good heart health. Last year's event raised $10,000.

"It's an ongoing concern that the Wimmera Grampians has one of the highest death rates from cardiovascular disease in Victoria," she said.

"Money raised from entries and sponsorship will go into the event trust fund for a heart health awareness project in the future."

The Stawell Field and Game Club will be manning a barbecue at Cato Lake on Sunday for competitors and their supporters to enjoy following the challenge.

Anyone with a reasonable degree of fitness can take part in Sunday's Wimmera Heart Challenge, which will start and finish at Cato Park.

There will be a five kilometre walk or run and a 10 kilometre run.

For children under eight years, there will be a run around the lake.

"We encourage everyone to enter online before the event, especially the teams which must register before the day," Ms Peacock said.

To enter online for the Wimmera Heart Challenge - Run For Russ, go to www.heartchallenge.com.au and make sure you Like www.facebook.com/heartchallenge.

Ms Peacock said the challenge attracted around 400 competitors last year and she was confident that total would be reached again this Sunday.