Painted at Kendal Colour Run

If there's one event that combines fitness, fun, and family bonding in the most colorful way possible, it’s the Kendal Colour Run. In 2022, Gabriel and I had the chance to take part in this vibrant event, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable days of the year for both of us.

The Build-Up: Excitement in the Air

In the days leading up to the Kendal Colour Run Gabriel, asked me about a thousand questions: “Mummy, will there really be colour everywhere? And, most importantly, “Can I throw it at you?”

For Gabriel, the idea of running through clouds of coloured paint seemed like the perfect mix of sport and silliness. For me, it was a great opportunity to do something active together, while raising money for a good cause.

Kendal's Colour Run is more than just running—it’s about community, charity, and sharing an unforgettable experience with family and friends.

The Morning of the Event: Anticipation and Butterflies

The morning of the Colour Run was a whirlwind of preparation. As we arrived at the starting point in Kendal, the buzz of excitement was contagious. The start area was filled with families, runners of all ages, and groups of friends—everyone smiling, laughing, and ready to get covered in colour.

Gabriel’s eyes lit up as he spotted people already throwing paint over themselves and each other. He was soaking in the atmosphere before the run had even begun.

We dressed in plain white T-shirts, knowing full well that they wouldn’t stay white for long and as it was a sunny day wore sunglasses. Sunglasses proved to be an essential to allow us to run through the clouds of colour whilst preventing pain dust getting in our eyes.

The Run: A Riot of Colour and Laughter

When the starting horn blew, Gabriel and I set off together at a steady pace, though it was clear early on that this wasn’t going to be about speed. We ran and weaved our way through bursts of colour stations, where volunteers happily threw vibrant powder into the air. Gabriel giggled as the first splash of bright red hit his shirt. His cheeks were soon covered in a swirl of blues, greens, and yellows.

Each colour station we passed felt like a celebration. I found myself laughing every time we were hit with another cloud of colour. It wasn’t long before our white shirt's were a complete rainbow, we covered from head to toe in paint.

What I loved most about the run was how everyone encouraged each other. Whether they were walking, jogging, or sprinting, the sense of camaraderie was palpable. Gabriel and I were part of something bigger.

The Finish Line: A Messy but Beautiful Triumph

Crossing the finish line wasn’t just a physical triumph—it was an emotional one, too. We were covered in a riot of colours, and I couldn’t help but feel proud, not only of him but also of the morning we had shared.

I couldn’t stop smiling as I looked at him, a swirl of emotions washing over me. It wasn’t just about completing a run—it was about taking part in something joyful, seeing Gabriel’s pure, unfiltered happiness, and creating memories I knew we’d both cherish for years to come.

Post-Run Reflections: More Than Just a Fun Day

After we returned home, we spent a good amount of time trying to get the colour out of our hair before going in the house (a task far harder than I anticipated!), but the smiles on our faces never faded. Gabriel spent the rest of the day recounting the run to anyone who would listen, still buzzing with energy.

For me, the Kendal Colour Run wasn’t just an active event or a fun day out. It was a reminder of how important it is to take part in something playful and spontaneous with my son. This day reminded me of the joy in simply being present.

Gabriel and I connected in a way that transcended the usual we laughed, we ran, we got messy—and I wouldn’t trade that for anything.

Looking Forward to the Next Colour Run

Gabriel and I are already looking forward to the next Colour Run.

For any fellow parents out there, I can’t recommend enough finding these moments to just let go, laugh, and embrace the mess. It might just become one of the most rewarding experiences of your year—colour, chaos, and all.