The Botswana Colour Run was officially introduced to Batswana this year after its success in other countries. According to organizers of the five kilometer event series, Batswana have responded positively towards the fun rainbow run that is slated for 26th September 2015 at the Grand Palm Hotel.
“We have so far managed to sell out all early birds Group A tickets thus confirming 2000 registrations. This shows that this event will sell out soon considering our target of 10 000 people, and we still have almost 4 months to go before the actual event. And we haven’t started other marketing strategies, we have only advertised on Facebook.
We already have 18 000 followers on Facebook against our target of 40 000 and all the comments and posts show that the followers are eager for the day. It’s like the world cup is coming to Botswana, people are excited and we appreciate that,” said the Regional Director of the Colour Run, Bright Gumbochuma.
The event has also been able to secure sponsors including 03 Beverages, which is the official hydration partner, DHL is the official logistics partner, Gabz Fm is the media partner and other sponsors are Plascon, SKY, Rail Park Mall and Brand Botswana. “Other sponsors are on line to sign. We will announce our platinum and gold sponsors at our upcoming press conference,” said Gumbochuma.
The Colour Run, along with other unique racing events, is gaining wider appeal as it helps generate new interest in running and inspires new athletes. The fun run is among those that represent a new theme in running- the selling of an experience beyond the accomplishment of crossing the finish line.
According to Running USA, non-traditional running events have increased from low six figures in 2009 to a staggering 4 million in recent years; “The goal of these non-traditional running events is simple: to create a unique, doable experience beyond just running and crossing the finish line. In fact, about 60% of The Colour Run entrants have never even run a 5kilometre race. Most are brand new runners of all ages with an approximate 50/50 gender split that wouldn’t even dream of signing up for their typical local road race.”
Tickets are selling online direct from the Colour Run website and people can pay using their cards or they can buy them from Botswana Craft. The early birds tickets are sold out and they are now introducing early birds Group B (limited) for P200 adults and P50 kids. The ticket covers the run, day festival and the neon party.