More than 400 participants gathered at Sandwell Valley for this year's Blind Dave Colour Run, enjoying a vibrant day of fitness, fundraising and community spirit as part of Sandwell Council's Summer Festival.
Inspired by fundraising legend Blind Dave Heeley, the annual event once again welcomed runners, walkers and families of all ages and abilities to take on either a 3K or 5K route through the picturesque surroundings of Sandwell Valley. The Colour Run remains one of the Foundation's most popular community events, combining fun and physical activity while raising awareness and support for vital community programmes.
Participants began the day by collecting their event T-shirts, race numbers and paint packages before assembling in the event arena ahead of the start. Excitement quickly built as runners gathered for a mass warm-up led by Chloe Hicks, Health and Fitness Coordinator, who helped prepare participants for the colourful challenge ahead.
Before the event got underway, Blind Dave Heeley took to the stage to thank participants, volunteers and partners for their continued support, encouraging everyone to enjoy the experience. The atmosphere soon reached another level during the much-anticipated Paint Throw, as clouds of vibrant colour filled the air and signalled the start of the run.
Participants then set off in waves across the 3K and 5K routes, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Throughout the course, runners and walkers were showered in bursts of colourful powder, creating unforgettable moments for participants and spectators alike.
The event attracted a diverse range of participants from across the Foundation's programmes, including players and families from the Midland Junior Premier League (MJPL), Girls Game Programme (GGP), Pan Disability teams and members of the adult fitness programmes. Their involvement highlighted the inclusive nature of the event and reinforced the message that the Colour Run is open to everyone, regardless of age, background or ability.
Jayne Norton, Partnerships and Events Manager, said:
“The Blind Dave Colour Run continues to be one of our most popular community events and it was fantastic to see more than 400 people coming together to take part this year. The atmosphere throughout the day was incredible, from the mass warm-up and paint throw right through to the finish line celebrations. Events like this demonstrate the power of community, bringing together participants from across our programmes, families and supporters of all ages and abilities. We are extremely grateful to Sandwell Council, Pertemps Network Recruitment, Ministry of Colour, our volunteers and everyone who took part for helping to make the day such a great success.”
In the competitive field, Sukhdev Bajwa was first to cross the finish line in the 3K event, closely followed by Kay Bliss. In the 5K run, Aaron Simms claimed top honours with an impressive performance.
Every participant received a completion medal in recognition of their effort and achievement. Smiling faces, colourful outfits and a strong sense of accomplishment were evident throughout the day as participants crossed the finish line and celebrated their success.
A huge thank you goes to Sandwell Council for supporting the event as part of the Summer Festival celebrations, event sponsor Pertemps Network Recruitment and Ministry of Colour for providing the paint powder that helped create such a spectacular and memorable occasion.
The Blind Dave Colour Run 2026 was another fantastic success, bringing the community together for a day of fun, fitness and unforgettable colour, while helping to support the valuable work delivered by the Foundation across the region.
