Colour Run at Eston Riverside Park was a huge success!

By Joan Janzen

A first-time event kicked off at Eston Riverside Regional Park (ERRP) on Saturday afternoon, July 27th. A group of 135 participants gathered at Tyner Hall for the ERRP Colour Run. Organizer Shannon Beckstrand said, “We did our best to deal with the wind, but that’s Saskatchewan!”

Everyone from babies pushed in strollers to seniors came out to walk or run along the 3 km route throughout the park. There were games for the kids waiting for the run to begin and beer gardens for the spectators.

A total of 135 participants registered for the 2024 ERRP Color Run on July 27th. Photo by Shannon Beckstrand

PHOTO BY SHANNON BECKSTRAND

“We tried to keep registration costs as low as possible,” Shannon explained. Registered participants could purchase t-shirts, and all proceeds from the event went to the new slide for the ERRP pool. So far, we have raised approximately $2600.” The estimated cost of the slide will be between $8,000 and $10,000. Thirteen generous sponsors donated $3,775 towards this event, and Central Plains Co-op donated water for the runners.

Six colour stations were set up along the route, manned by volunteer cabin holders who created a fun atmosphere with decorations and music. “The weather was extremely windy, which made it challenging for decorations and registration, but we made the best of it,” Shannon said.

The event was made possible with the help of 15 volunteers, who helped with set up, take down, registration and running the colour stations.

Shannon and her husband Jason describe themselves as “generational River Rats.” They grew up enjoying cabin life at the park and are present-day cabin holders. “All my four children have worked at ERRP as lifeguards, gate workers, golf course maintenance, and booth shifts,” Shannon said. We understand how precious our park is to future generations.”

Her words explain why she heads up fundraising events like the colour run. “There’s always a need for funding and volunteers, which is so important to keep our little Oasis in the middle of the Prairies going,” Shannon said.

Everyone who visits the park appreciates the efforts of these dedicated organizers, volunteers, participants and sponsors.