I have to admit, he wasn't far off. I was on the verge of heat exhaustion, had just walked 5km with a four-year-old and had a blue eye - no really, cobalt blue I believe. The yellow, blue and red hues to my skin did not however indicate bruising. They were war signs of a different kind: COLOUR WARFARE.
For those who haven't attended before, clear your diary for next year. It's a five kilometer run/walk/shuffle where each kilometer marker has a tunnel of colour. I'm a glitter person myself, but dumping handfuls of green powder on a stranger’s head is rather satisfying.
This year, we took my friends' four-year-old to join the fray. We were a bit concerned that he might get a fright at the first marker, but he threw himself into it like a seasoned veteran. Yellow dust flew and the smiles at the end of the tunnel said it all. "AGAIN."
The powder is made from organic corn starch and natural food dyes and it’s 100% safe. I would advise, however, to bring goggles/sunglasses/a bandana if you don't want to be tearing green and sneezing orange. Also... sunscreen sunscreen sunscreen. There isn't much shade en route and none at the party venue, so bring hats and slap on the sunscreen or you will end up like me, with the word "happy" sunburnt onto the back of your knee.
Ice cream vendors are strategically placed along the route to perk up tired youngsters and when you finish your five kilometers there are plenty of food stalls to revive your energy stores. You could also dive into your runner’s pack for the Super C sponsored sweeties! The entertainment on stage caters for all and the crowd is encouraged to participate in competitions, giveaways, fancy-dress judging and of course, drenching your new friends in colour!
So, you've got a year to prepare your outfits, join that running club and get ready to douse your fellow man in rainbow dust at the happiest 5km ever!
The Color Run takes place in Pietermaritzburg on the 2 October, Durban on the 9 October and Cape Town on the 12 November. To register and purchase tickets click here.
