Students, parents and staff across the Lloydminster Public School Division got to unwind this weekend after another school year. The 17th annual LPSD Colour Fun Run saw it’s largest one yet, drawing 1,260 participants for a fun run through Bud Miller Park.
Originally the event began as a way to bring the public school division together for a night of fun and outdoor activity. Now in its 17th year, the 5 km race through the park helps celebrate the end of a school year and promote physical activity. Chad Smith, teacher and coordinator for the event, hopes that kids take home an appreciation for being active.
“I think that simply walking or running is a sport that anyone can do at any age, and doing it with family members and friends make it all the more fun,” said Smith.
Each participant starts with a batch of coloured corn starch to throw and get covered in. As they run through the course, they’re faced with stations that throw more fun into the equation. They could be covered in more colourful corn starch, jump through foam from foam cannons and receive a playful spray of water from members of the Lloydminster Fire Department.
The run is also a way for the school to promote wellness for its staff and student body. Each school has a running club to help inspire physical activity. College Park School’s running club has been preparing for 10 weeks. Smith hopes that preparing for this race and finishing it leaves a feeling of accomplishment.
“A five kilometre race, you know, it’s a challenge for some. Hopefully, the kids feel that sense of reward when they get to the finish line.”
At the end, those taking part got to enjoy a barbecue. Winners for prizes like bicycles were also drawn.