We’ve all seen serious marathon runners on TV, laced into high-tech running shoes and wearing the latest in moisture-wicking fabrics, passionately dedicated to shaving seconds off of their personal best times as they compete in miles-long races that test the limits of their endurance and mental fortitude. For a certain kind of well-trained and disciplined athlete, this is what passes for a good time.
For the rest of us, there are fun runs.
What is a Fun Run?
Fun runs, also known as fun races or novelty runs, are non-competitive running events that focus on enjoyment rather than competition. They are typically untimed and are designed to be accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. Fun runs often feature unique themes, such as glow runs, obstacle courses, or zombie chases, adding an element of entertainment to the experience. While triathlons are for elite athletes, fun runs are for everyone, and they invariably draw a crowd of people looking to have a great time with friends and family.
One of the most popular and thrilling types of fun runs (not to mention the type most featured on social media, thanks to the fantastic photos that result) is a color run. That’s a 5K race where participants are spattered with colored powders at various points along the course by volunteers, turning each runner into a unique artistic masterpiece! The goal of a color run is not to finish first, but to have fun and immerse yourself in the flashy, festive atmosphere. To the delight of color run fans everywhere, the premier color run in the country, Color Me Rad, has returned this year following an extended COVID-19-related hiatus. It’s under new management, and the inaugural race on June 15, 2024, promises to be bigger, better, and more amazing than ever!
Make Color Me Rad Your First Fun Run
If you’ve never been to a fun run before, do yourself a favor and sign up now to participate in Color Me Rad. It’s a great introduction to the joys of a fun run, and after one spectacular Color Me Rad event, you’ll be hooked for life! Here are some great reasons to make Color Me Rad your first (and best) fun run:
- Non-Competitive Atmosphere: One of the most intimidating aspects of traditional races is the competitive nature. Winning becomes the overarching goal, sometimes eclipsing the enjoyment of race day itself. However, Color Me Rad is different. It’s not timed, so no one is watching you or judging your performance. You won’t be pressured to finish quickly. This relaxed atmosphere allows you to focus on having fun and leaning into the experience.
- Accessible to Everyone: Color Me Rad is open to people of all ages and fitness levels. Many participants choose to walk the course, so you don’t have to worry about keeping up with more experienced runners. Color Me Rad wholeheartedly welcomes individuals of all abilities to participate in the Color Me Rad color run to whatever extent suits their wishes and unique capabilities. The event is inclusive, and focuses on a spirit of fun and camaraderie.
- Colorful and Festive Atmosphere: The highlight of Color Me Rad is, of course, the wild variation of colorful (non-toxic) powders that are thrown at participants throughout the race. The kaleidoscopic spectacle captivates and exhilarates onlookers and participants alike, creating an atmosphere unlike that of any other running event. The run itself is only one part of the festivities; the party continues with post-race celebrations at the Finish Festival, libations from the beer and wine garden, and a replenishing array of delicious foods provided by an army of local food trucks. It’s a great big hullabaloo, and you won’t want to miss any of it!
- Rewarding Social Experience: Color Me Rad is best enjoyed with good friends and family. It’s a great way to bond with your people while getting some exercise and having a ball together. You’ll laugh, you’ll dance, and you’ll take extraordinary, colorful photos with your squad that you can share on your Instagram page, making memories you’ll all revisit for years to come!
- Gateway to Running: For many people, participating in a Color Me Rad run is the first step towards a more active lifestyle. It can be a fun and motivating experience that inspires you to continue running and maybe even tackle longer races in the future. For some people, the anticipation leading up to race day and the endorphins triggered by joyful movement create a thirst for more. Before you know it, you could be hitting races all over the country to get your fix. But if not, that’s okay, too. Color Me Rad is a great way to dip your toes into the world of running without feeling overwhelmed or making a big commitment.
If you’ve never been to a fun run before, Color Me Rad is the perfect introduction to this exciting world. With its non-competitive atmosphere, accessibility, and festival fun, it’s a great way to bond with friends, get moving, and maybe even discover a new passion for running. So why not gather your posse and sign up for the Color Me Rad run on June 15th in Liberty Lake, Washington? Experience the joy and excitement of running in a whole new way!
