Color filled the Fairplex in Pomona on Saturday at The Black Light Run, a 5k run aimed to raise funds for Miracle Children’s Network. All proceeds went to the organization to support children with cancer.

Over nine thousand runners waited eagerly to get started as the race was scheduled to take off at 7p.m. The race took place at the in field of the horse race track and carried on throughout The Fairplex. Although this was a three-mile run, it was one like no other. People from all walks of life came out to support the cause and each other. While some were serious runners, others were striving to reach a healthy weight and many were there to support their own loved ones who were suffering with cancer.

“This is something for everyone. It’s for all ages. This is aimed to bring people together,” said operations manager Donnie Warr.

Runners were encouraged to come dressed in all white and were given a t-shirt that supported the cause. During the race, staff members threw colorful powder as runners hustled by.

“The fact that someone came up with an idea for almost ten thousand people to enjoy and also contribute is an amazing thing,” said runner Kelsey Kaplanek.

There were four black light stations where runners were showered with bright neon colors. “My face is blue and green. My hands are yellow, my legs are rainbow and my heart is full of love. I wish every sick child could be out here with us,” said runner David Ortiz from Cal State Fullerton.

Although the run was quite chaotic with thousands of participants in all directions, the race was a success. “I’m not much of a runner,” said participant Alexandria Garcia. “I was so distracted by everything around me that I didn’t realize I ran three miles,” she added.

At the beginning, sun was barely going down and the air was clear. When 9 p.m. rolled around, the after party began with guest DJs and the Fairplex was turned into a world of color and the night sky filled with neon stars.

“If we can get almost 10,000 people to cover themselves with paint from head to toe for a good cause for one night, that means we this society has heart,” added Warr. As he threw out high-fives to runners passing through he added, “Tonight, we are one.”