Be careful and remember that large costumes that are heavy and can absorb water or blow with the wind can cause serious injury. It's also real important to make sure the costume is cool enough to run in. One man wore a wetsuit one year and didn't realize heat exhaustion is life threatening. Others have died from heart attacks during road races. I foresee more races and organizations that need increased participation and publicity will look to the costumed runners contest to fill their needs.
Nothing beats good publicity like a fun time for all ages and costumed running can provide that.
I dream of a day when the all major road races have costumed runners and the prize money equals and in certain cases, surpasses that of the lead runners. It will help those who need to add some spice in their running. It was personally satisfying to see the 1998 Run to the Far Side offer money prizes to the top ten places. They also gave airlines tickets and autographed memorabilia. In the future I hope to see at least one costume run during the year in every major city.