Clouds of pink and orange and blue erupt, ringing in the fall, as people take off on the running course around campus. Once a year, as the weather gets colder and the calendar

flips to October, an explosion floods the campus of color as students, faculty and families throw cups of colored dye into the air for the Color Run.

Members of the Hockaday community celebrated the third annual color run Oct. 5. After a year off due to COVID-19, the race returned with a slightly altered course. The run also did not feature the Wellness Festival from 2019 to ensure the health and safety of all participants. Despite changes, the race maintained its goal of uniting the community.

“The goal is to bring our community together for an action event with the

focus on having fun,” Athletic Director Deb Surgi said. “Community, running, color, food, art and wellness are the focus.”

A performance by the Drill Team was added to kick off the event. Captains Anne Rubi and Elise Little choreographed a dance for the team to perform. The team rehearsed during  routine practices on even-day mornings.

“I’m just excited to be able to perform in front of a crowd again,” Little said. “Last year we just videoed our performances and it was really underwhelming, so I’m excited for that experience.”

The group did face a few challenges, including the higher number of team members they have this year and the length of their dance. Their sponsor Karen Sanchez, Coach Deb Surgi, Coach Jennifer Johnson and managers Maddie Stout, Hannah Philip and Cate Goglia helped them overcome these challenges.

“They take care of playing and

pausing the music, and they record our practices,” Rubi said. “Cate knows all of the choreography so she will also step in and help sometimes.”

With the help of their managers, they managed to choreograph, learn and rehearse their routine in time for the color run. Their routine added to the already meaningful return of the color run.

“Bright colors are often associated with spring and renewal,” Coach Surgi

said. “The ability to bring the color run back to our community felt like a new beginning this fall.”