For the first time ever, the insanely popular Run or Dye 5k is bringing its colorful fitness extravaganza to Santa Barbara.
Over 7,000 participants are expected on the UCSB campus next Saturday (August 10) for the 5k fun run/walk that incorporates bright, non-permanent dyes to liven up the festivities. The anticipated turn-out makes it potentially the largest walk/run to ever occur in Santa Barbara County.
The event benefits the UCSB Alumni Scholarship Fund, donating at least $12,500 for student scholarships.
“The idea that this specific event, not only is everyone going to have a good time, but that it will award six scholarships is huge,” said John Lofthus, the Associate Director of UCSB Alumni Affairs.
Those on the course are not timed, as organizers say Run or Dye is “all about promoting fun and fitness.”
Lofthus, an avid runner himself, and the UCSB Alumni Association, which organizes the annual Gaucho Gallop running race in April, helped map out the Run or Dye course that loops around the UCSB campus
“The course that we decided on really takes in the best of UCSB,” Lofthus said.
The Santa Barbara 5k course begins and ends in Lot 18 by Storke Field, with four different “dye stations” along the course that ensure a color-filled path. At the finish line, each contestant gets one final explosion of dye to complete the human paint job. Two of the stations along the course will be reserved for blue and gold dye to celebrate the university’s school colors.
The course passes the Thunderdome, Harder Stadium, the Faculty Club, and the scenic lagoon.
Locals looking to get involved can still register for the race or sign up as a volunteer. There is a special discount code for the Santa Barbara community that provides you with a $5 discount for the run/walk. In order to receive the discount, simply enter RODUCSB5 for the coupon code when you register. Interested volunteers can sign up with the Alumni Association by email.
Registered contestants are highly encouraged to stop by the Goleta location of Santa Barbara Running Company to pick up their race packets beforehand in order to avoid long lines on Saturday morning. The downtown store will not have packets.
Run or Dye actually has its roots in a Hindu Festival called Holi. Originally, it was a festival that commemorated good harvests and the fertile land. Hindus believe it is a time of enjoying spring’s abundant colors and a celebration of winter’s end.
The Santa Barbara event, the only one on the Central Coast in 2013, is one of dozens on the national tour. Find all 2013 dates HERE.
