Clouds of pink, blue, yellow and green plastered runners during Generations fifth annual Color Run Saturday morning at the Civic Center.
With four paint stations throughout the 5K course, more than 100 runners became doused from head to toe in color.

“This 5K was about having fun, not about time,” said Debbie Hodge, one of the event organizers. “Our primary goal was to raise money for Generations’ three group homes, which will be used primarily to fund our client’s activities. Without this event, our clients also wouldn’t have a Christmas.”

The event started with a fun warm up where everyone huddled together to initiate a massive color throw while dancing along with Richard Simmons, portrayed by Briley King. The DJ played songs like “Sexy and I Know It” and “Macarena” which got the runners pumped as they threw cups of paint into the air before beginning the race.

The paint, which was made from corn starch, quickly stuck to the sweaty runners. Afterward, they had the chance to get colorful selfies while enjoying some of the vendors set up in the parking lot. Kids of the Community offered free face painting while the Humane Society handed out doggie treats.

This was the first year Generations allowed dogs in the race and no one seemed able to resist petting all the sweet pooches.

“I like animals more than I like people so seeing all these friendly dogs has been my favorite part,” laughed Hodge. “We’ve had a tremendous turnout and raised $6,000 already without counting those who registered this morning.”