The earth and sky transformed into a running rainbow.
TAGUIG CITY – A rainbow of colors enveloped the streets and skies of the Bonifacio Global City with the successful staging of the Color Manila Run last January 6, marking a festive start to the 2013 running season. Definitely a fun run with a lot of fun, runners negotiated the 10, five, three and 1.5-kilometer routes while being dusted with multi-colored powders.
First things first, this event is strictly a fun run so no winners were announced. As it seems, everybody went home a winner loaded with a lot of laughs and happy memories.
The novel foot race is organized by Proactive Sports and KangaROOS, the original shoes with pockets. Proceeds will go to Republikha, a non-stock, non profit organization that aims to empower the next generation through music and education, and Hop-E, a foundation moving towards helping eradicate poverty through the four elements, Education, Empowerment, Employment, and Events.
This is one of the rare occasions wherein I get to attend a fun run as a pure spectator or observer. As early as upon leaving the starting arc, the runners are immediately showered with yellow powder.
Runners were encouraged to wear white attire in order to maximize the experience. Aside from the hydration and aid stations, several stations were spread over the course with each station given a specific powder color.
Not to worry though, the powders are certified safe and may even be used in cooking, specifically in decorating cakes and other baked goods. There was no escaping as powder marshals lined both sides of the street.
There are several schools of thought for this race. One may try to run as fast as possible to avoid the powder marshals or simply stop and even apply powder on themselves. Since there would be no podium winners, the latter seemed the popular choice.
8th Avenue is suddenly transformed into Ube Avenue!
Some runners emerged without a single patch of skin not covered with powder, including a few who could pass for cartoon characters Shrek and Smurf. For a change, runners forgot about breaking personal records or practicing proper form and pacing.
By the way, the usual elite runners were absent and a lot of the participants looked like they are joining a fun run for the first time. It is time to burn all those excess pounds gained during the recent holidays.
At the finish line, everyone was handed an extra plastic sachet of powder plus medals. It seems the best was saved for last.
As the remaining runners trickled past the finish line, everyone was asked to gather in front of the stage for the grand finale. Upon cue, the sachets were opened and a cloud of colors enveloped the field – aside from the basic colors, new shades were created as powders combined.
Definitely, the Color Manila Run achieved its goal of putting a lot of fun in the run. During the program, the organizers announced that another run is in the works to be held in the evening of February 16 – perhaps with neon or glow in the dark powders!
As the saying goes, start the year on a high note. If the Color Manila Run is any indication, 2013 is going to be another good year for Philippine running.
Wow, hindi ko kayo nakita dun sir but glad to know you enjoyed Color Manila Run. Join us also for the Color Neon and the Color Cebu legs.