Dexter, Missouri - Life is always a little brighter when you add color!!!  And that was certainly true as over 200 participants in the first D-Unit Bearcat ColorBurst Run approached the starting line in the drizzling rain on Saturday morning. 

For many years, 5K runs have brought a lot of excitement to events but they have taken on a whole new dimension in the FUN category with the addition of corn starch and powdered food coloring. 

The ColorBurst ideas quickly grabbed the attention of young and old as well as runners and walkers.  Dana Adams of First National Bank conceived the idea after her daughter, Kendall attended a similar event in Sikeston, Missouri.  She immediately knew this was the perfect to coordinate for the 2013 DHS Homecoming weekend. 
 
From the beginning, the Regional Healthcare Foundation organizers encouraged local businesses to work closely with groups and organizations at Dexter Senior High School in their sponsored activities for Homecoming.  The newly formed D-Unit Pep Club at Dexter High School was the perfect partner for Dana and First National Bank. 

With considerable help from the Dexter High School administration and High School counselor, Judy Patterson, the event began to reach participant numbers that guaranteed a good time for all.

The rain did not dampen the spirits as runners and walkers began to arrive prior to the 8:00 a.m. start.  Dexter High School principal Dan Pollock was on hand to welcome the group and get the race started. 

Organizers have not completed a final tally of the benefit to the D-Unit Pep Club, but all indications are that this event will be a great starting place for the group. 

"I've heard nothing but good things about the event," commented high school counselor, Judy Patterson.  "Everyone had a great time and is already looking forward to the event next year." 

Discovering the fun had by participants is just a click away on Facebook.  Many local participants' Facebook pages exploded with pictures and exciting quotes. 

Runners and walkers came from a broad range of both the community and others returning for reunion activities.  Kindergartener Klaire Essner, daughter of Kent and Kim Essner, was probably the youngest runner and Tom Love of Dexter was the most senior runner in the group. 

"We are really proud to have been a part of a great team from both the school and the community to pull this off," noted Dana Adams of First National Bank in Dexter.  "Mark Stidham, the Dexter Police Department and the Stoddard County Ambulance District were vital to making this event work for us."

For great photos go to the ShowMe Times Facebook page by clicking below and don't forget to hashtag #bearcatcolorburst on Instagram and Twitter so that everyone can enjoy all the absolutely colorful photos!

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Additional Pictures of Event Located Here:

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