Climatologists need not be alarmed. It wasn’t exactly a rainbow, but there was a cloud of color in the air at the Millstone Township Middle School on Oct. 18 as more than 300 participants got involved at the first Color-a-Thon at the middle school.
Christina Baldino, the event’s chairwoman, said she was moved that so many participants came out to support the PTO/PTSA’s inaugural Color-a-Thon.
All of the proceeds from the event will go directly to the pupils in the Millstone Township K-8 School District. While the official tally is not complete, Baldino estimated that the event raised more than $15,000.
“The event showcased a really nice feeling of community as so many students, teachers, friends and families ran together with smiles on their faces, having a great time in spite of the frigid 30-degree temperature,” she said.
Prior to the race, a Zumba instructor from Club Metro in Freehold Township warmed up the crowd. Then the participants lined up under a giant inflatable arch as they got ready to run the scenic route. The middle school’s athletic director, Joseph Muni, mapped out the 2.5-mile course.
The course had nine stations where the walkers and runners were color-blasted with safe, eco-friendly, plant-based powdered dye as they passed through each color zone.
“It was an event I will remember forever,” said Dr. John Sico, who served as one of the color blasters. “I loved watching my grandkids and their friends running through with smiles on their faces.”
Families with young runners were able to run a shorter course. Organizers said the event promoted exercise, healthy living and family fun. The entry fee was $30 for the long course and $15 for the short course.
“After the race, participants jammed out to music at our After Blast Color Party!” Baldino said. “The crowd helped count down to when everyone ripped open their color packets to share a blast of color with family, friends and everyone around.”