Colour Rush 5K - Slave Lake, AB

What is Colour Rush – 5km Powder Run?
Colour Rush – 5km Powder Run is the most fun you’ll ever experience in a 5K! You begin at the starting line clean as the blue waters of the Caribbean, and 5 km later, you’ll be so coated with a kaleidoscope of colour that your own pet may not recognize you. Along your colour journey the Colour Crew will ensure they do not miss a spot on you. You’ll cross the finish line and into a final spectral of colour.

Is there an age limit?
Would you put an age limit on bliss? We welcome all ages! All minor participants must have their waiver signed by a parent or guardian and 12 and under must be accompanied by a registered adult participant.

Do I have to be a runner?
You’re not Usain Bolt? Not even sure what a 5 km means? No problem. There are hundreds of competitive runs, but our main goal is showering you in colour- the upward step counter is just an added bonus. Get through our fun run by sprinting, walking, skipping, or hitching a piggy back ride. It is all good!

Do you have a charity?
The Colour Rush – 5km Powder Run proceeds go towards the Slave Lake Child Care Society, otherwise known as Legacy Childcare. The Slave Lake Child Care Society is a non-profit organization with a volunteer Board of Directors.

Is Colour Rush – 5 km Powder Run safe?
The safety of our runners and volunteers is our top priority. Our colour is certified non-toxic and is corn starch-based with food-grade dyes. As with any substance, you won’t want it in your eyes! All volunteers receive strict instructions to throw powder below the head, but as an extra precaution, many runners opt to wear sunglasses or goggles, and sometimes a bandana over the mouth and nose while passing Colour Crew members.

Can I bring my pet on the run?
For the safety of our runners, and our furry and non-furry friends, pets are not allowed on the run.

Can I participate if I have medical issues or am pregnant?
Our colour is non-toxic and corn starch-based. We want everyone to be as safe as possible, so if you are allergic to corn or food dye, participation in Colour Rush – 5km Powder Run is strictly off limits. If you are pregnant or have other health concerns, consult with your doctor.

This is my first 5K, what do I need to know?
Don’t worry! This run isn’t timed, and there are no judgments for how long it takes you to finish the course. We’re a fun run, so if you can walk 5 kilometers, you can do this amazing event! Our recommendations: arrive 30- 45 mins early, lace up some comfortable shoes, and most importantly, wear whatever you’d like to see splattered in colour! (White looks best- just keep in mind that whatever you’re wearing will likely remain dyed even after a wash!)

What time should I arrive?
In a perfect world, we recommend you get there about 30 – 45 mins before your start time of 11 a.m. This will give you wiggle room should you encounter traffic, choose to check out the venue, or stretch out before the run. We’ll send you an email with updated details should your location require unique instructions!

Do I need to register my child that is 4 or under?
No, you do not need to register your child 4 or under; however, they will need to be accompanied by a registered adult participant and they will also require a waiver signed by their parent/guardian. They will receive a bib or extras but they get to go along your colour journey with you! 

What do I wear?
Our colour appears most vibrant on a clean white backdrop. Make sure whatever you wear is eligible for a tie-dye, as staining is not uncommon. You’ll receive a Colour Rush race bib with your registration, and if you are registering for the swag bag you will receive a bib and swag bag.

Does the colour come out?
The powdered colour is washable, and should easily wash off of skin and out of hair. If you have light blonde hair or coarse hair, there are tips for washing it out. A quick Google search will get you tons of tips on how to get rid of the colour or keep it!

Before The Run

If you have light coloured or highlighted hair, you may want to oil your hair before the race. This will help keep the colour from sticking to your luscious locks. Coconut oil or olive oil work best but a good leave-in conditioner will usually do the trick as well. Every head of hair is different and will react differently to the colour….especially highlighted or coloured hair.

The pink and blue specifically have been known to stain blondes for a few days. Plan accordingly.

What do I bring?
Bring the least amount of belongings necessary so that you don’t feel weighed down and can strictly focus on the colour showering you will receive from all sides. Necessities like a phone, a credit card, identification, a towel or garbage bags to cover your car seats, and a water bottle (though we do have water stations!) are crucial. Not advised, or allowed? Pets, bikes, scooters, weapons, lighters… you know what’s good for you.

Can my family and friends come watch me as a spectator?
Definitely, we love supportive cheerleaders! Our only stipulation is that they stay off the actual running course- this is for their safety and also the safety of our runners.

Can I bring my phone or camera?
We highly encourage bringing your devices- just make sure they are well protected from the elements, i.e. splashes, clouds, and splats of colour.

What about a selfie stick?
Your selfie stick is only welcome if you’re as big on your manners as you are on securing an optimal group photo. Your neighbors didn’t sign up for a stick in their face, and we don’t want anyone getting hit in the head, so please use your discretion.

Where do I park and is there a charge?
Check the map with the location to get all the details on parking. You’ll receive an email 1-2 weeks before the event with all the details and/or if there are any changes

Is there a bag check?
There is no bag check and there are no lockers. Our volunteers are not responsible for babysitting purses, wallets, or a change of clothes. The best rule of thumb: if you don’t want it on your body during the run, leave it at home!

Is the run timed?
There are hundreds of competitive runs around, but our main goal is splattering you in colour- not setting your new PR. Get through our fun run by sprinting, walking, skipping, or hitching a piggy back ride. It’s all good!

Can I bring my pet dog, cat, or hamster?
We love your pets, which is why they aren’t allowed. For the safety of pets and all runners, please leave your furry/scaly/slimy/squawking friends at home. Participation will be prohibited should they tag along.

What if there’s bad weather?
You think a few storm clouds can stop the colour? Rain just brightens the colours! For more critical weather concerns (tornados, flooding, etc), we will send out emails. If the weather is deemed dangerous by the event director or local authorities, we will email you with cancellation or postponement details.

Will there be anything there to buy?
We will t-shirts for sale from previous Colour Rush events – at a discount!

I lost something at the event, what do I do?
All lost items are taken to our check in tent. If you’ve already left the venue, you can email us at run4slavelake@yahoo.ca to help source any missing objects!