Bring awareness to all types of cancer and join in the fun at Paint the Town 5K Warrior Color Run/Walk on Saturday, Oct. 13, in Mattoon.
Sponsored by Sarah Bush Lincoln, the Paint the Town pre-run party begins at 8 a.m. Festivities will include yoga at 8:15 a.m., a dynamic stretching warm-up with personal trainers from the Center for Healthy Living at 8:30 a.m., and a special balloon release in honor of cancer warriors at 8:55 a.m.
The run/walk begins at 9 a.m. and features a new route that starts and finishes at KC Summers on Broadway Avenue this year. The cancer awareness run travels through Lytle Park and offers participants the opportunity to run through “color.” It features two water stops along the way. All finishers will receive a medal.
Participants and supporters are encouraged to wear a tutu representing a color of the cancer they want to honor. A limited number of tutus will be available for $10 at the event.
Race Director Angela Hampton said, “Paint the Town is such a special event to those who have fought cancer, and it’s very meaningful to people who have supported a loved one in the fight. We are so excited about the addition of the pre-run party this year, as well as the new opportunities to recognize the warriors we have lost. This is such a great opportunity for friends and families to come together.”
Following the run/walk, those who wish to celebrate with their friends, family and other participants may do so near the finish line. The “after party” will include entertainment by country music artist Garrett Biggs, inflatables for kids, face painting and rock painting, food, a place to sit and visit under a tent and photo opportunities with a balloon ribbon, as well as other fun activities.
The cost of the family-friendly run is $20. Every participant receives a shirt and a medal. Participants can register at www.sarahbush.org. Children and strollers are welcome.
This year there will be a special paint station for cancer survivors, or those people who are not able to walk or run because they are currently undergoing cancer treatments. For more information call Public Relations at 217 258-2420.