Still Not Over It: Cooper River Bridge Run Maintains Global Appeal

The first Saturday in April is an exciting time to be in Charleston, as it will mark the 47th anniversary of the Cooper River Bridge Run 10k race, which attracts fitness enthusiasts from all over the country and the world. This year’s event, slated for April 6, kicks off at 8 a.m. at the start line located on the corner of Coleman Boulevard and Simmons Street in front of Moultrie Middle School.

Founded in 1978, it has come a long way since that first race in the late ‘70s, when 766 finishers ran over the Silas Pearman Bridge. Now hosting a capacity of 38,500 participants, the Cooper River Bridge Run is the third largest 10k race in the U.S. In the most recent economic impact study, conducted five years ago, it was determined that the event has a $35 million impact annually on the Charleston area. A new economic impact study will be completed this year to provide an updated figure, according to Irv Batten, who has served as CRBR race director since 2019.

Typically, the race draws participants from all 50 states and 15 different countries. More than 75 percent of registrants travel more than 60 miles to participate in the run/walk, endeavoring to “get over it.” Since 2006, the ‘it’ part has referred to conquering the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge that spans 2.5 miles alone.

The mission of the CRBR is to provide a world-class 10k road race and to promote physical activity and a healthy lifestyle, said Batten. In addition to its 10k, the CRBR also includes a world-class wheelchair division. They host a kids’ run in September as well.

TWO DECADES AND COUNTING

Longtime CRBR runner Pat Welch, 76, estimated that he has participated in the race more than 20 times. The first time was on the old bridge.

“You could feel the bridge swaying from the movement of the runners,” chuckled Welch.

The James Island resident hasn’t missed a Bridge Run in the past decade, and even served on its board for six years. Welch, who currently serves as president of the Charleston Running Club, said the nonprofit volunteers to help fill the CRBR registration packets.

“There’s a lot of volunteer hours that goes into a run behind the scenes,” Welch stated.

Welch loves that the race has become a tradition in Charleston and unlike some people, he doesn’t mind the crowds. “I’ve always liked crowded races.”

Welch appreciates that it’s well organized, offers a good and challenging course and provides a unique opportunity to run through two municipalities and see the harbor. He added that it features one of the best expos anywhere (with more than 190 expo booths, the Cooper River Bridge Run is also one of the largest health and wellness expos in the nation) and an excellent finale with delicious food. Moreover, it brings out both walkers and runners and a mix of elite and amateur athletes.

Incredibly, Welch didn’t start running regularly until he was 60, though he did still run a few CRBR’s prior to that. He generally runs the race in a group of three to five people.

“There’s a lot of camaraderie. But once you get out there it’s every man for yourself,” Welch quipped. “It’s friendly competition.”

Welch’s best time is 52 minutes, though he isn’t worried about beating any records. He has always been active, even before he started running and he thinks that getting into it later in life has possibly prevented some of the injuries he has seen sideline others who began running at earlier ages.

“Running will take a toll after 30 years. I’m late to the game but it’s worked out so far,” noted Welch. He intends to “get over it” yet again on April 6.

RUNNING FOR A CAUSE

If you’re feeling philanthropic, the CRBR also has a Charity Connection program that allows runners to support great local causes. You can register using a charity connection bib, at $150, of which $100 goes directly to the charity, said Batten.

Cooper River Bridge Run has 14 charities connected with the Bridge Run: Alzheimer’s Association, American Cancer Society, Camp Rise Above, Carolina Children’s Charity, Lowcountry Food Bank, MUSC Hollings Cancer Center, MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital, Palmetto Military Support Group, Pet Helpers, Ronald McDonald House, Special Olympics South Carolina, The Green Heart Project, Water Mission and Windwood Family Services.

For more information or to register for the event, visit bridgerun.com.

By Colin McCandless