Oak Mountain Color Run

The Oak Mountain Color Run returns to Oak Mountain State Park on March 16. Now in its sixth year, the event benefits the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and features both a 5K and 1-mile fun run.

The Color Run is unlike a traditional race in that participants run through color stations, where they are showered with non-toxic paint powder. Runners often wear white T-shirts, socks and headbands that come to resemble rainbows by the time they reach the finish line. 

The Color Run 5K begins at 9 a.m. and the fun run at 10 a.m. Both races wind through the park’s trails and start near Dogwood Pavilion. 

The event has grown substantially since it was founded in 2013 by Oak Mountain High School graduates Mollie Shealy and Mandy Kelly. It drew 100 participants and lost $200 in its first year. 

The 2018 edition, on the other hand, attracted around 300 entrants and raised nearly $22,000 for UAB. According to the race website, organizers hope this year’s event is “bigger and better than ever.” 

Individual registration for either race is $15 for those 12 and under and $25 for those 13 and over. Teams of five to 10 runners can register for $20 per person. 

Included with registration are complimentary refreshments and a Zumba class that begins on race day at 7:45 a.m. 

Commemorative race T-shirts are not included with registration, although they are available for purchase online. A limited supply also will be available on race day. 

For more information or to register, go to oakmountaincolorrun.com.