Tuesday, February 16, 2016

The University of North Carolina Wilmington will host the third annual Color Me Rad 5K run at 11 a.m., April 3. Registration for the event is now open.

Based on the Hindu Festival of Colors, Color Me Rad has runners begin the 5K race with plain white t-shirts then douses them with color bombs at eight different stations dispersed throughout the run. By the end of the race all participants are covered from head to toe in splashes of blue, green, yellow, pink and of course, teal. Once runners cross the finish line they are topped off with even more color at a slime station and gel drop. The race, sponsored by UNCW Athletics, will take place on the university’s campus.

“Color Me Rad is one of UNCW Athletics’ biggest fundraising events of the year,” Director of Athletics Jimmy Bass said. “It reaches such a large part of the community and represents everything UNCW Athletics is – exciting, energetic, competitive and fun.”

Last year, UNCW’s Color Me Rad race had almost 5,000 participants and raised more than $17,500. Funds raised by the event will go toward the Seahawk Club, an organization that provides scholarships to student-athletes.

Registration, currently $35, will gradually increase in increments of $5 as the race date approaches; however, participants may use the “UNCW” promo code to receive a 10 percent discount. By applying the promo code, a larger percentage of money goes toward the Seahawk Club. The registration price includes a t-shirt, phone protector and a temporary tattoo.

Color Me Rad recommends participants arrive 30 to 45 minutes early. Parking is free on UNCW’s campus and participants will receive their informational packets the week of the event. The color appears most vibrant on white clothing, so it is suggested to wear white, along with comfortable shoes. Color Me Rad encourages participants of all ages to take part.

-- Hallie Criste

#Athletics