The Champions Run for Special Children is a superhero-themed 5K in Anderson, South Carolina, run on the East/West Connector with an 8:00 a.m. start. The event includes both a certified 5K and a 1-mile fun run, and it is open to runners, walkers, and people who roll the course. Its purpose is direct: the race raises money for The Champions Center for Special Children, formerly DCEC, which provides educational and therapeutic services for children with special needs.
The event leans into the superhero idea, with participants encouraged to bring capes and costumes rather than treating the morning like a standard road race. The Champions Center serves children with Autism, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Hydrocephalus, Muscular Dystrophy, Cystic Fibrosis, genetic conditions, and developmental delays. Awards cover individual age groups, team participation, team spirit, and costumes, so families, schools, churches, businesses, and other groups have reasons to show up together.