Runners, spectators enjoy Ellendale Color Run

A carnival-sized crowd gathered at the NRHEG Schools elementary site in Ellendale to cheer on participants in the NRHEG Color Run on Saturday, Oct. 24. More than 200 participants started the race in conspicuously white shirts ready to be decorated with colored powder as they ran, walked or were pushed in a stroller. Taking first place was Colton Lermen at 7.32, second was Violet Botten with 12.11, and in third Jack Vanhal.

 

In the parking lot of the school were three fire trucks, an ambulance and the Steele County Sheriff. In fact, sheriff’s deputy Jeremy Wiste was helping to block the road to keep traffic separate from those doing the color run. “I like working for these, they’re for a good cause,” he observed. 

 

Moe Geo’s Events and Catering and Sassy Sota were vendors on hand for those who were hungry or needed a break from the warm October weather.

 

NRHEG elementary physical education teacher Wendy Schultz was the starter for the race; staffers were stationed at a number of spaced out checkpoints to throw colored powder at the marathoners.

 

Said Schultz, “Today’s fundraiser is for the conclusion of the construction of our All-inclusive playground. We have $13,000 towards the $42,000 final payment needed to finish the third phase, which is rubber matting around the utilities.” Currently, the space has wood chips, but the rubber is considered safer and cleaner and comes from recycled materials. She also gave a big thanks to Kayley Camerer, “Who was instrumental in today’s planning.”

 

As Schultz concluded with thanks to everyone who was participating, the kids with the most energy were up front of the pack in no time once they started, with the adults moseying in the back, some with bags and some pushing strollers. All appeared to be enjoying the event.