The first Holi Run on the French Riviera took place on the evening of Friday, July 10, in Villeneuve-Loubet. 3,500 participants were bombarded with colored powder during their run… and also during the party that followed. Forget about any romantic rendezvous, it’s impossible to come out clean.
Flower necklaces, wigs, ponchos, and other face paints: the world of running partied well along the Marina Baie des Anges. Smiles were already out in force even before the start. Employed at the Town Hall, Christelle Garin ditched her work attire for a yellow ensemble with a flower crown, bracelets, and a Tahitian dance dress. “No headaches tonight,” she exclaimed while dancing. Next to her, part of the holirunners took over the parking lot for a giant Zumba session. And for about twenty minutes, everyone let their bodies loose with hip swings, raised arms, and dance steps. At least there was no need for a warm-up, as foreheads dripped with sweat.
The more serious ones preferred to ensure a minimum with some stretching, like Paolo Bernardini. Registered for the 10-kilometer timed run, he wants to get a good time while also receiving his share of powder. "It's part of the fun, I'm here for it too," he stated before heading with the others to the starting area. For those who want to play "Where's Waldo?", accompany the runners and place yourself slightly higher up. All along the start, the same colorful glasses and white Holi Run t-shirts occupy the space. Only the costumes allow you to spot a possible friend. Exception made for a bride, whose long white dress (which certainly won't stay that way) stands out from the crowd.
After the race, the Holi Party
With the 5 and 10-kilometer timed runners gone, the volunteers ensure their equipment is in good condition. It consists of a plastic cup and two boxes containing 15 kilos of powder each. In total, 3 tons will be spread over each kilometer on the athletes. Stépahne Cohen, t-shirt and pink powder in hand at the fifth kilometer, warns the public: "Attention, this is going to become a flood zone!"
Some don’t need to be asked twice to scram. This volunteer is pleased with the Holi Run and believes that the powder “will add some spice.” He also warns that “the price will be the same for the more serious ones.” And when the first arrive, they enjoy it. A pink cloud forms a smoke screen as the competitors present themselves with open arms. One even goes as far as to urge the dowsers by yelling provocative “Come on!” The Mayor of Villeneuve-Loubet, Lionnel Luca, didn’t escape it. Drenched and with a face full of red powder, he admits having “loved it.” Before the start, he shared his delight at hosting the colorful race in “the most beautiful place on the French Riviera.”
The finish line crossed, the direction is not the shower but the parking lot again. Laurent from Kiss FM, tirelessly hosting the event, awaits everyone for the Holi Party, the so-called after-party. The powerful bass breaks through the air, and Laurent keeps the holirunners on their toes, shouting "You’re tired!" again and again. But most importantly, he counts down for the five powder throws the participants will engage in. And each time, the crowd disappears behind a multicolored cloud. Blue, red, yellow... No one is left out. Never has being dirty seemed so normal. And given the more than festive atmosphere of the evening, no one will complain, quite the opposite. The time for a shower will come when the DJ turns off the music.
