THIS WEEKEND: COMMUNITY PARK TO HOST MARATHON’S FIRST-EVER COLOR RUN

Participants will be showered with brightly-colored powder or paint as they make their way around the color run course. CONTRIBUTED

The city of Marathon’s Parks and Recreation Department and HapynKeys Running invite the public to participate in the city’s first-ever color run on Saturday, Aug. 5 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Marathon Community Park. This isn’t a race, but an experience: participants will be soaked with a water hose and then showered with powder while circling the ball and soccer fields at the park. 

A color run is a fun run event where participants are showered with brightly-colored powder or paint at various points along the route. They are doused in vibrant hues of red, blue, green, yellow and pink, creating a colorful and festive atmosphere. These color powders are non-toxic, making them safe for both the runners and the environment.

“Every so often there will be a water station, followed by a paint station,” said Parks and Recreation’s Jennifer Ward. “It’s fun for the kids and everyone.” 

The run (or walk) starts behind the amphitheater. The adult course is six laps of the ball and soccer fields, and the kids make two laps.  

Online registration has closed, but participants can sign up at the park before the start. The cost is $30 for the first registrant, with discounts for multiple participants, and funds raised stay local. Registration includes a race shirt, goodie bag, medal, food and drink. Members of the community have organized to provide music, food and drinks, and the city’s Fire Rescue staff will be present to ensure everyone’s safety.

A course map for this weekend’s color run around Marathon Community Park. CONTRIBUTED.