This article may contain graphic and/or adult content unsuitable for minors and sensitive readers.
So you have decided to enter “The Happiest 5k on the Planet” but now what? First off, you don’t need to be a runner as The Color Run™ is a beginner’s dream race. It is designed for fun, friends and families and is a non-timed event with a designated walking lane.
Serious runners are advised to keep to the right and if you are not part of the lead pack, to be aware that you will need to dodge crowds and will probably not be able to run all the time. Participants with strollers are advised to keep to the left and if you are running with small children, to please watch and direct them through the race.
The course starts at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, North Campus, Summerstrand at 8am and will end at 12pm. Parking is available at the University and will be free to all registered participants. Space is limited so try carpool if possible. Please follow any directions provided by race officials, volunteers, and law enforcement. No pets, alcohol or glass bottles or containers are allowed and please do not feed the monkeys. Above all, be courteous and respectful to everyone around you.
Try and pick up your race packet with your Color Run T¬shirt, headband, tattoo, race bib and packet of colour in advance from The Boardwalk Vodacom Amphitheatre on Friday, 30 August between 10am and 9pm or Saturday, 31 August between 12pm and 6pm. You can collect race packets individually, or you can collect for your friends and teammates – just remember to have each person’s ticket and ID with you. Please make sure you wear your TCR shirt, headband and race bib on race day – this is how you will be identified as a Color Runner at the start and finish line.
Don’t be tempted to bust open your colour packet before you start running, save it for the finish. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to be splashed in colour during the run but more importantly, you’ll later be left out of the fun if you’re without a colour packet when everyone lets their colour out.
This race is designed to douse you in laughter every step of the way – as the coloured cornstarch clings to your white apparel it will transform you into a rainbow nation unto yourself. Protect your eyes and mouth with a pair of sunglasses and bandanna or hat, and make sure to keep any valuables sealed in plastic bags. Don’t wear anything that you’ll be upset to lose as the powder can stain and bring a towel or change of clothes for the car trip home.
The Color Run Store will have some sweet items for sale at Packet Pick Up, Check In and at the Finish Festival, along with other local and national vendors. Bring cash and hang around after the race and check them out.
This is the ultimate fun run that embraces all ages and abilities and is not about going fast but about enjoying the experience and having fun! Friends and family are welcome to watch the 5km of colour running madness. Additional information can be found online at www.TheColorRun.co.za
