By Dennis Volkert
The third “Color Run” took place July 11 in downtown Sturgis, organized by Doyle Community Center.
The event included 1-mile and 3-mile routes. Participants could run or walk. At several sites along each route was a “color station,” where volunteers doused runners/walkers with powder of all colors of the rainbow.
About 100 participants chose the 3-mile path, and 50 took the shorter route, said Heather Kyle, desk supervisor at Doyle.
Among those, about 55 were returning participants, Kyle said.
Turnout was similar to the 2024 Color Run, she said. The first season involved about 25.
“Color Run” has a non-competitive format, with no prizes awarded, so everyone is free to move at their preferred pace.
Kyle said organizers received plenty of positive feedback, including “affordable and memorable,” “perfect event for all ages” and “loved the ‘80s theme,” which included costumes, neon and throwback tunes.
Proceeds from Color Run are used to fund the next year’s event, including production of T-shirts, colored powder and other supplies.
“This isn’t a fundraiser, just a fun, community event made to bring people together and cover costs,” Kyle said. “Thanks for your support and for showing up with so much color and energy!
Kyle thanked numerous contributors, including BOFA, which sponsored and created shirts, along with Doyle Board members Ned Haylett, Sandy Pfenning and Dan Speelman, Doyle member Pat Jones for overseeing registration, and assistance of Doyle staff for managing color stations.
