All over the West Coast, people are getting ready for an electrifying 5K race – the Neon Night Run.
On May 25, the popular fun run will make its way to the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds in Turlock.
Runners will deck themselves out in their favorite neon gear, brandish a glow stick or two, and help light the course of the 5K run as their outfits become illuminated under black lights.
For the adventure enthusiasts there will be course obstacles that are brightly illuminated as well. Although the course will be lit up, participants are encouraged to wear a forehead light.
The Neon Night Run, hosted by Healthy Fit Families, Inc., started in 2012 in the City of Tracy. Since then the event has grown in popularity, spreading to cities across California, Oregon, and Washington.
Being from the Central Valley, Healthy Fit Families, Inc., CEO Demitrius Snaer said that Turlock was a great choice for the Neon Night Run.
“We went to the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds and the people there were great,” said Snaer. “They seemed really open to the event and are allowing us to put it on how we want. We think Turlock is a great city for the Neon Night Run because it is centrally located. We can pull people from Merced and the Bay Area. It’s a great opportunity to grow the event.”
The event will benefit the Turlock economy, Snaer said, as Healthy Fit Families uses local companies and schools to help with the Neon Night Run.
“A lot of times, various events will come into a town and the city doesn’t see the revenue,” said Snaer. “But we definitely try our hardest to use local businesses so that we can put money back into the local economy that we’re visiting.”
A portion of the profits from the Neon Night Run will go to the Make a Wish Foundation, Snaer said.
The Neon Night Run will also feature an 80’s disco costume contest with prizes for the best outfits. The run also features an after party that all participants are invited to attend.
The “After Glow” party will feature music, dancing, and beer, and will last until 10:30 p.m. Pop artist Diamond Dez will perform at the party.
Registration for a single participant is $40.00. Prices will increase to $45.00 on March 3.
The Neon Night Run will begin at sunset on May 25, with the first wave of runners released at 8:30 p.m., the second wave released at 8:45 p.m., the third at 9 p.m., and the fourth at 9:15 p.m..
Spectators are allowed to join the fun and watch the event at no cost. Parking is $10. If you want to take part in the neon lights while staying on the spectator side, you’re more than welcome to. Some people have even been known to bring custom neon signs with friend’s or family member’s names on; such signs are available at sites like NeonMama.com.
To register online, visit https://reconrun.webconnex.com/neonnightrun2
To find out more, visit www.neonnightrun.com or www.facebook.com/NeonNightRun
