The Neon Run, the Dirty Girl Run, and of course, Color Me Rad…with all of the different fun runs out there, it’s almost like we’re being tricked into exercising. This past Saturday, my friends and I participated in our second Color Me Rad 5K in Richmond! It was so much fun last time, we just couldn’t resist — especially after hearing the event was going to be at Kings Dominion this year!
What is Color Me Rad, you ask? It’s the most colorful and fun-filled 5K ever! (But I’m a little biased since it’s the only color run I’ve ever signed up for). Anyone and everyone can do it regardless of age, size, athletic capabilities — you name it! You start off by wearing all white and by the end of the race, you’re coated in a rainbow of Kroger-branded corn starch.
Getting Ready
Getting ready for the race is almost as fun as actually running in it. The day before the event, we went to the Hilton Garden Inn to check-in and pick up a packet filled with our race bibs and Color Me Rad goodies. Registration comes with a Color Me Rad t-shirt, bright colored sunglasses of your choice, a bunch of temporary RAD tattoos, and since it was our second time participating, we got free headbands and arm bands. Not to mention, they had really sweet merchandise for sale. But being the broke college student that I am, I resisted the temptation and left with what came with the packet.
Before the Race
We signed up for the 8:50 am wave which meant we had to wake up early just to get there on time. Our alarms were set for 6 a.m., but of course, we got up 30 minutes later. It’s a miracle we even woke up then because we don’t even get up that early for school. We slid our white tees on, put on our pink head and arm gear, and tattooed ourselves RAD. We surprisingly got there about an hour before the race started. We obviously spent that time taking group selfies. Did I mention that our team name was the Speedy Sloths?
You’re welcomed to the event with loud music, a lot of excited people and colors everywhere. The vibe you get from being there is so happy and positive. While some runners had just arrived and were waiting for their race, others had already finished.
The Race
Kings Dominion was probably the coolest place to hold the event. We actually ran through the theme park. There was so much to look at, especially since they were in the process of setting up for their Halloween Haunt. The color stations were spread about 8-12 minutes from each other. Seeing a color station just a few feet ahead of you gives you that little bit of energy to keep running. But to be completely honest, my friends and I mostly sped-walk and did the occasional 2-minute sprint because we were so distracted by everything around us. Yeah, we’re going to use that excuse. It’s kind of sad when there are old people and moms with their babies running ahead of you. It was fun though and that’s what counts!
Finishing the Race
After the race, we felt so accomplished. Woo! We finished the 5K….in 35 minutes, but that’s besides the point. Naturally, the first thing we had to do was take an “after” picture in our beautiful color-stained clothes. They actually have professional photographers who take pictures before, during, and after the race, so don’t worry about having to bring a camera or your phone. Of course, those shots come with a price. I, myself, risked my phone’s life by taking it in with me.
The best part of Color Me Rad has to be the Color Bomb at the end! After finishing the race, everyone crowds in front of the stage with their color packets. There’s a countdown and everyone throws their powder in the air, getting even messier than they were when they finished the race. It’s amazing!
Aftermath
Getting the colors and tattoos off were a b*tch, but totally worth it! Most of the color came out in the first wash but I had to lather, rinse, and repeat multiple times. As for the tattoos, my skin was so red from trying to remove them. I had the tattoos all over my legs, my chest, and my arms! I thought it was in my best interest to not walk around campus with “RAD” tattoos all over my body. I didn’t have rubbing alcohol, so I tried nail polish remover, facial wipes, and for some reason, I even tried lotion. I couldn’t get them off the first day, so long-sleeves, leggings, and scarves were my outfit of choice that night. They eventually rubbed off about three days later. Like I said, it was completely worth the trouble! Color Me Rad is definitely an experience everyone should try at least once in their lives.
For more information or to find a race near you, visit http://www.colormerad.com/.