A first-of-a-kind event that took place last year in Bridgeport is returning for a second year, according to a member of the Johnson Elementary School PTA. Marjorie Toohey has confirmed that in April the 2nd Annual Johnson Color Jam 5K will take place at the Bridgeport Recreation Complex.

 

On April 29, starting that morning, the event will take place. And like last year, this isn’t about the best time or establishing personal bests – which is okay for those who are competitive. According to Toohey, the goals are the same as last year.

 

“The primary purpose of this event is that it benefits the Johnson Elementary PTA and the funds that are raised allocated to buy supplies and put on different activities for students and also, hopefully, to allow us to have funds to set aside for possible needs at the new Johnson Elementary,” said Toohey, a PTA parent volunteer. “The other primary goal is for everyone to have fun.”

 

Unlike nearly every other 5K, this event isn’t timed. Individuals can go as fast and as slow as they want. The one common denominator is that everyone racing will be doused in color. Multiple stations will be set up along the course at the Rec Complex. As participants go past, they will be doused with various colored corn starch that results in a human canvas of artwork.

Last year’s inaugural event drew roughly 125 people. Toohey is hoping for an even bigger turnout.

 

“We hope to get as many out as possible and we’re stressing this is a family event and it’s an event that’s not just for those associated with Johnson Elementary or Bridgeport for that matter,” said Toohey. “We’re pretty sure this is the only color run in the area.”

 

For those who don’t pre-register, registration for the race is between 7:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. The actual race begins at 9 a.m.

 

Businesses can also get involved. Toohey said they’re looking for local businesses to sponsor the color stations. The businesses can be involved with having their employees throw out the colored corn starch on runners or they can utilize volunteers that are coming from Bridgeport High School to assist.

 

Spectators can also assist. They can purchase bags of colored corn starch to douse the runners as part of the three-lap course that is relatively flat.

 

“For anyone that is worried about getting anything in their eyes, we’ll have bandanas and glasses to use. We’re also going to have additional activities such as face painting, sidewalk art and games taking place for those not participating,” said Toohey. “In fact, if you get done early or even late you can stick around and take part in those activities.”

 

The cost of registration is $25 for adults 12 years and older, $15 for students 4 -11 years old and free for children 3 and under.  The first 100 to register are guaranteed a commemorative race shirt and event bag.

 

Click HERE to go the event’s Facebook Page, where additional details and registration information is available. Online registration is also available at ACTIVE.com.

 

Editor's Note: Photos from last year's race by www.benqueenphotography.com.