The grounds of John Tyler Morgan Academy will be ablaze in hues of orange, red, purple and blue as the school hosts its first Color Me MA 5K and one-mile fun run. Unlike traditional 5K races, a “Color Run” is less about the stopwatch and more about having fun as runners are doused with dry colored “paint” as they make their way through the course.

“My nieces have enjoyed doing color runs and I thought it would be a great way to involve the entire student body as well as the community in a fun healthy fundraiser,” said Lauren Henry, president of the Morgan Parent Teacher League, who also said more than 250 have pre-registered to run in the race so far.

Registration and race packet pickup begins at 8:30 a.m. at the school, located at 2901 West Dallas Ave. Race day fees are $25 for the 5K and $20 for the mile fun run. Henry cautioned that race day registration does not guarantee a T-shirt, so those not pre-registered should get there early as the race begins at 10 a.m.

The 5K course will wind through the grounds of Morgan Academy before heading east on Dallas Avenue and around Lion’s Fair Park before ending at Morgan. The fun run course will be on school grounds.

“There will be five color zones during the 5K, and three color zones in the one mile, Henry said. “We will also have a DJ with music, giveaways and the Selma Fire Department will have a misting station for runners. We want it to be a real family friendly party atmosphere.”

Business sponsors for the event include: Dr. David Henderson, Talton Communications, Children’s Dentistry of Central Alabama, Selma Pediatrics, Tucker Family Dentistry, Selma Urgent Care, Dr. Todd Sherrer, Dr. Osasere Aghedo, Henderson Chiropractic Clinic, Dr. Julie Sams, Dr. Brent Whiddon, Neurology Consultants, Selma Doctor’s Clinic, Northside Animal Hospital and Dr. Brett Wood.

According to thecolorrun.com, color runs became popularized in 2012 “… as an event to promote healthiness and happiness by bringing the community together to participate in the “Happiest 5k on the Planet.”

Participants are urged to wear white clothing so the dry paint will show up better, and while Color Me MA volunteers will be throwing “Hippie Powder” made of colored cornstarch, organizers suggest wearing clothing you don’t mind getting the color on.

“Although the powder is non-toxic and safe, we’re encouraging runners to wear sunglasses to help keep from getting the powder in your eyes,” Henry said. “Some people also choose to wear a bandana to keep it out of your mouth, but again it’s not harmful or toxic.”

Henry said the funds raised from the event would be put toward capital improvements at the school.