5K adds a dash of color to Rail Trail

MILLERTON — Those walking along the Harlem Valley Rail Trail on Saturday morning, June 1, were in for a surprise as they came across a group of multi-colored runners taking part in North East (Webutuck) Central School District’s annual 5K Color Run.

Organized by and in support of the Webutuck Student Council and the Webutuck Physical Education Department, this year’s Color Run was sparsely attended. A total of 10 participants registered for the 5K on the Rail Trail. After hosting the last two Color Runs at the school, Webutuck special education teacher Jonathan Scarinzi said, “We figured we’d try it out on the Rail Trail to get the community involved.”

“It’s going to benefit our children for the future,” said Amenia participant Tara Breyette. “I think the community getting together, showing support, will make the kids want to stick together, support the community and grow our towns.” 

Starting at the schoolhouse, the route for the 5K traveled along the Harlem Valley Rail Trail to the crossing at Mill Road and then back to the schoolhouse. Seven stations were set up along the trail where students from the Webutuck Student Council launched liquid color and color dust at participants. 

Led by Scarinzi on his bicycle, participants jogged at a steady pace, ready to be doused in a variety of colors. With their buckets at the ready, students flung the colors at the participants who ran through the dust and liquid in pursuit of the halfway point at Mill Road.

Preparing themselves for the runners’ return, students at the color stations readied their liquid colors and grabbed handfuls of dust for a second round. As they raced back up the trail in the direction of the schoolhouse, the runners dashed through the clouds of dust and attempted to shield themselves from the shots of color. Meanwhile, the trail’s weekend visitors looked on with amusement as they passed by the color stations and watched the runners go by.

All funds raised at this year’s 5K Color Run will help support Webutuck’s physical education programs as well as Student Council programs. Looking ahead, Scarinzi reported that the district will definitely host another 5K Color Run in the fall.

For photo, turn to Page A1.