Forget your average sweaty 5K run – that’s boring! This spring in Chicago, several colorful 5K runs are coming to the area, where runners start the race wearing white clothing and end completely covered in paint. These types of races are gaining popularity all around the country and are great opportunities to get involved in the running scene if you’ve never run a race before before but have always wanted to. On the other hand, if you’re a seasoned competitor, you can calm down your normal pace with the fun atmosphere. Don your white apparel, lace up your running shoes, and head out!
Run or Dye
Run or Dye’s motto boasts “Are you ready to race the rainbow?” The famed 5K is coming to Toyota Park – only 30 minutes away from Hyde Park by car – on May 25 and features six dye stations where safe powdered dye is sprayed on runners. Participants can sign up for $45 as an individual runner or $40 on a team. Not interested in running? The organization is also recruiting volunteers and charity sponsors. For more information, check out http://www.runordye.com/locations/Chicago-2013.
Color in Motion
On June 2, Color in Motion 5K is invading Lincoln Park – only 25 minutes by car from Hyde Park. The race was originally scheduled for June 1, but due to overwhelming popularity from registrants, partially prompted from a Groupon deal offering registration for half price, the Chicago Parks Department suggested they move it to allow more participants. The event works similarly to Run or Dye’s and encourages both athletic and inexperienced runners. The event is $50 for individuals and $45 for team members. For a limited time, those who sign up can get an extra $5 off by posting the event’s information on their Facebook page by linking their purchase to Facebook during the checkout process. Volunteers and charity partners are needed here as well. For more information, check out http://colorinmotion5k.com/Chicago.
While any pace is acceptable during these races, if you’re looking to get in shape, there are a plethora of 6 week training programs available online, such as this one from About.com: http://running.about.com/od/5kracetrainingschedules/5K_Race_Training_Schedules_for_Runners.htm.