Wheaton's Fun Run a colorful spectacle

If you can't run fast, don't sweat it.

That's the attitude behind the Wheaton Park District's Fun Run in Color, a 5K run and walk that will take athletes from one park to another and back via a jaunt through the city's downtown Saturday, April 22.

The desire for fun instead of competition is paramount, said Kristina Nemetz, the park district's superintendent of marketing and special events.

“It's an awesome run for all ages and all abilities,” she said.

Along the way, runners and walkers are likely to pick up some color, and not only from the sun's rays.

“There are four color stations: yellow, orange, blue and pink,” Nemetz said.

As athletes pass through each station, volunteers throw fistfuls of cornstarch-based colored powder at them.

“It doesn't hurt when it's thrown at you,” Nemetz said.

The powder temporarily stains clothes and skin, creating a kaleidoscopic effect.

“They usually wear white shirts and get as colorful as possible,” she said. “The kids get a kick out of it.”

Nemetz said the race, in its fifth year, draws about 1,200 runners and walkers and about 500 spectators. The route starts at Seminary Avenue and Main Street, just east of Memorial Park, and goes north on Main, weaves west and north through side streets to Northside Park, then loops back to Memorial Park.

“The race goes off at 9 a.m. in waved starts,” she said. “There's a lot of people walking and running. We do allow strollers and wagons. It's an all-ability race. We have people on scooters.”

“We partnered with the Wheaton Rotary A.M. for this event,” Nemetz said. “Our portion of the proceeds benefits the Play for All Playground and Garden Foundation.”

The foundation is devoted to creating outdoor playing areas and gardens that are accessible to all children in DuPage County, including those with special needs.

“They're building a sensory garden for children who fall within the autism spectrum,” Nemetz said. “There are 2,500 kids in DuPage County who are in the autism spectrum.”

Several phases of the garden are complete, she said, and more attractions intended to enhance play are planned for the site, located in Danada South Park in Lisle.

Nemetz said the race is not timed, though runners may elect to time themselves. There are no awards, but the race will be followed by an after-party that features a disc jockey, sponsor and vendor booths and refreshments.