Oh you can color my world with happiness all the way (part 2)

I am linking up an old post for this Sunshine Sunday on Colour. The Colour of fun!

Way back in December I added the Color Run to the Torshlusspanik list and back in February I did it, but have yet to conclude the experience. On the eve of the Gold Coast event, here's a little tempter (other dates around the country are listed here with some more photos capturing the day).
I'm not a runner, and needless to say, neither are the kids but with 6 or so weeks training (which was more for us to exercise than actually needed), we were ready as we were ever going to be. Which was not very ready as we are not the fittest family on the block.
We woke that morning and got in our gear - all white, and headed out to join the thousands in line.

As one with an aversion to crowds, I was amazed at how civilized and well organised it all was - the vibe of the people corralled in the queue was more of a party (and eager anticipation) than anything else. The music blaring and cheering on cue helped.
Then the countdown to the first wave of runners went, and we all shuffled forward. Eventually it was our turn and off we ran.
There are a few runners with paint guns on their backs to chase you but the majority of the paint is as you run through a colour station.

Seemingly innocent enough, you say. But let me tell you, as the music changes to the theme of the colour you're entering, and you see the paint clouding on the road ahead, you can't help but smile in anticipation.

In the thick of it:

The paint throwers would go for the kids every time, and even for the pram but I was barely covered (obviously they didn't want to upset the old lady...hmmm). However, my partner went up to one thrower, grabbed and handful of paint and got me at close range. As you do. In the mouth.

This continues for every station so you are quite the rainbow by the end - and I learnt not to run too near partner.
Then for the big party finish, the colour throw. We all have little bags of powdered paint, and once you pass the end, you are again corralled up to a stage and all throw your paint into the air on cue to the music. My photos don't capture it but it's so exciting and beautiful and joyous, all rolled into one.

Slowly it all fades away, and then the next group are gathered up for their turn.

All that's left is a great feeling, and the washing.

So all that's left now, is a happy memory that still makes me smile when I talk about it, the knowledge that I'm not interested in taking up running unless it's the Zombie Run or something with a pay off for me - achievement and pushing my limits don't cut it for me. Too lazy and it's too boring (but good for all you marathon runners out there).

The good news, Sydney peeps, is that it's coming back for a second round this year - August 25 is the next date, and this time around Centennial Park. So if you missed out on the last, get in to the next.

I have, on the other hand, been rather neglectful of my list - for the last 2 months I've done nothing to get the ball rolling on anything else on the list. I need to have lost my focus and the torshlusspanik needs to kick in a little more. Clearly I need to start something to get my mojo back. Just not today...

Torshlusspanik List (exactly as it's been since February):

1. Shooting (check)
2. Fencing (check)
3. Play croquet at Croquet Club
4. Laser skeet
5. Off road buggy driving
6. Play Assassins Creed
7. Jetpacking (check)
8. The Color Run (check)
9. Invent something
10. Cooking Masterclass (check)