The first runner back was exhausted as he emerged from the purple rain and crossed the finish line in Molyneux Park yesterday.
Alexandra boy Maz Cameron (11) was one of more than 500 people to become human palettes at the first Alexandra Rainbow Run.
After he finished the track he tried to use his tongue to get the cornflour-based mixture out of his teeth.
Luckily, he would not have to be the one to clean the clothes.
"I’ll just throw them in the washing machine."
Runners and walkers were greeted by a sunny day in which the only clouds to be seen were from the colourful powder they were bombarded with at regular intervals.
For some of the throwers, the aim was to scatter it in front of the runners so they would run through the concoction.
However, as Alexandra girl Amy Grey (10) scooped a handful of blue powder she said "I just chuck it at the person".
While filling plastic cups with an electrolyte drink, Sport Otago chief executive John Brimble said it was a "fantastic" outcome for the first event in the district.
"You can just tell by the faces of the people. It gets mum and dad interacting with the kids and everyone is taking photos of each other. The good day certainly helps.
"We’ll evaluate it, but based on today we’d look to make this an annual event."
Entry fees will go back to the district through the Sporting Chance programme which helps provide disadvantaged children with assistance to take part in sport.
Oamaru will get its turn on the colour circuit in two weeks time, as will Balclutha, for the first time, in November.
