A challenge is out to local kids in hopes of finding the perfect mascot for the 2019 Canada Winter Games.

Games Chair Lyn Radford says "we are confident that the imagination of youth throughout central Alberta will create a truly special mascot and are excited to see the submissions".

Kids ages 5 to 12 are asked to choose from one of 4 animals that have local significance: the deer, the snowshoe hare, the moose and Alberta's provincial bird, the great horned owl.

From there they need to submit a drawing of the animal, a name and a baskstory that makes their mascot a unique symbol of central Alberta.

The winner will be a torchbearer at the Games, and also be awarded a prize pack and a pizza lunch for their class.

Kids have until May 12th to enter.

Find entry forms, official rules and instructions here.

The mascot program is presented by Riverside Dental Centre.