Colour Run - FAQs
Paint and clothing
What is in the paint?
The colour powder paint is non-toxic, corn starch, 100% safe and biodegradable. It is technically edible, although we do not advise that you eat it, as it’s not very tasty! If you have a skin allergy or respiratory condition, we recommend that you don’t take part or that you consult your doctor for advice. Powder paints are 100% natural and water soluble and used across the globe in the Hindu Holi Festivals. Read more details on the product safety information sheet.
How is the colour paint administered during the run?
The paint will only be thrown in our 5 designated stations. The paint will be aimed onto the body of the runners rather than the face to reduce the amount of paint getting into the mouth, nose and eyes. You will inevitably get some paint on your head / face, but runners who are not so keen to be in the direct firing line of the colour throwers are recommended to keep to the inside of the running lane (or avoid the zoned area completely) to receive the least amount of paint. If you have concerns about breathing in the colour, we recommend that you bring a face mask or a bandana to wear.
Does the paint harm the environment?
The paint is 100% natural and water soluble and will not cause any damage to the environment. No paint will be brushed into any drains. If it has been raining, please slow down in the colour stations to avoid slipping on powder paint. Please stay aware of any other slip and trip hazards to avoid injury e.g. slopes and uneven ground. Marshals will be in place to assist.
What should I wear, and will it get ruined?
Come along wearing running gear you don’t mind getting messy! Well-fitting trainers are recommended but please don’t wear your expensive ones as they will end up every colour of the rainbow. The coloured pigment should wash out of most fabrics but please wear clothes that you don’t mind getting stained…just in case. After testing the paint, we know that white is never white again after being colour splatted. The paint is water soluble so you can wash the clothes as normal, but avoid washing it with your nicest clothes. As with anything dirty, the sooner you wash it the better.
How do we get clean again after the run?
At the finish line we will have a cleaning station with soft brushes so that you can give yourself a good dusting off to remove most of the powder. You won’t be 100% clean but you will be able to remove most of the powder paint. The University of Bristol and Students’ Union will not be liable for any damage caused. Access to buildings will be restricted until you have cleaned and changed.
Event day
Will you have changing rooms or storage?
Changing rooms and toilets are situated within the main pavilion at Coombe Dingle Sports Complex.
Please arrive with limited personal belongings, or leave them with friends / family spectators.
There will be a staffed bag drop available at the main pavilion, where you may leave your belongings during the event. You will be given a wristband that will have a corresponding number written on a tag and secured to your bag. Your wristband is your only way of getting your bag back – do not lose it! Participants' belongings are left entirely at their own risk; the University of Bristol and Students’ Union cannot accept responsibility for lost or damaged belongings.
Is it safe to use my camera or phone during the Colour Run?
A professional photographer will be taking photos on the day while you make your way around the course. If you'd like to get your own photos or videos right in the midst of the action, we recommend covering cameras / phones with plastic wrap, a waterproof pouch, or bringing a disposable camera. Please take care and remain aware of your surroundings whilst using any device.
Can spectators come along to the Colour Run?
Yes, spectators are very welcome. We do advise spectators to keep a good distance from the colour stations as we cannot accept responsibility for them accidently being showered in powder paint.
Do I need to be an experienced runner to take part, or can I walk?
You do not need to be an experienced runner to take part; you can walk, jog or run the route. If you really want, you can even do it 3-legged with a friend, as it is not about speed but more about having as much fun as possible! The event is not timed, so for the more competitive runners - this isn’t a race, but an inclusive and fun run.
Is there car parking at Coombe Dingle?
Please note there is limited parking on site. Therefore, we recommend where possible that attendees make use of public transport.
Travel to Coombe Dingle by bus
Where possible we advise you to use the frequent and accessible public transport. Some options are listed below;
- Number 3 - stops right outside Coombe Dingle Sports Complex.
- Number 4 - stops at Queens Gate, just an 11 minute walk from Coombe Dingle Sports Complex.
- Number 1 - stops at Brecon road, a 15 minute walk from Coombe Dingle Sports Complex.
- U1 bus - This service stops at the North Village terminus, which is a 19 minute walk to Coombe Dingle Sports Complex. The U1 is a free bus service for first-year students in university halls of residence.
- Visit the First bus webpage for timetables and route information
Contact us
For event queries, you can e-mail us at sports-events@bristol.ac.uk.