Amongst colored tutus, white shirts and smiles to last miles, the people of the Washington, D.C Color Run await for the start of the race. On September 22 2013, thousands of people travel from all over the east coast to participate in the legendary Color Run at National Harbor. The Color Run is known as the happiest 5k on the planet and truly lives up to its standards. As runners await to start the race, thousands of people dance, laugh and sing in their white clothing as the DJ pumps us up for the run. The aspect that sets the Color run apart from other 5k runs is after every .8 miles of the total 3.2 miles, there is a color station. The object of the race is to go from wearing all white to finishing the race in vast amounts of color.
As our section walks up to the starting line, you can hear murmurs of people saying, “I am so excited,” or “I can’t wait to be colorful!” We start and as I approach to the yellow color station at .8 miles, dozens of people with spray bottles filled with the colored corn starch cheer us on. Suddenly, I enter a yellow cloud of color, and come out of the yellow section completely covered in the yellow corn starch. The three other stations during the run are pink, orange, and blue.
This run is not only a blast but motivates runners of all ages to participate. It demonstrates that not all running is boring and helps motivate runners to do the best they can. Also, the Color Run is such a happy environment. Many people love to cheer you on and give you high fives. The run is full with music throughout the race and is truly a magical experience. As the runners cross the finish line, you can see their exuberance and excitement that they finished the race. Thousands of the runners were covered in blues, pinks, yellows, and oranges and, most importantly, smiles. Not only is the run enjoyable, but once you are finished, you can join the Color Run’s “After Party.” A massive crowd of people congregate around the stage, dancing and doing numerous activities guided by the DJ. Every 10 minutes is a color throw, where the runners around the stage throw their color packets that were given to them at the beginning of the race. It is an incredible experience to see a massive cloud of various colors.
The joy on the people’s faces confirmed that the Color Run was truly a success. The Color Run craze is rising dramatically. Not only has it been to Baltimore, but it’s coming again November 17th around Camden Yards. I highly recommend the Color Run for seekers who want to exercise, have fun, and be colored with delight. The Color Run focuses primarily on healthiness, happiness, and individuality and encourages runners to step out of their comfort zone. I had a blast in Washington D.C and want to participate in the Color Run again very soon. I hope to see you in Baltimore November 17th.
