Runners doused in colored powder

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YPSILANTI, Mich., July 23 (UPI) -- Many of the 15,000 participants in the 5k Color Run in Michigan ended the event covered in a rainbow of colored powders.

The event Sunday in Ypsilanti involved the runners starting with white T-shirts and having colored powder tossed onto them when they passed through various stations, the Detroit Free Press reported Monday.

John Connors, a regional director of the Color Run, said the purpose of the event is to encourage all types of people to exercise.

"We really strive to create an atmosphere that's really inclusive of everyone," he said.

Connors said the $40 participation fees will benefit local charities including the Michigan Elvisfest, the Ypsilanti Area Jaycees, Ypsilanti Meals on Wheels and SOS Community Services.

Connors said another event is planned for Aug. 5 in Grand Rapids, Mich., and already has been sold out.