Cooper River Bridge Run

The Cooper River Bridge Run is a one-way 10K from Mount Pleasant into Charleston, South Carolina, using the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge as the centerpiece. It is typically held on the first Saturday in April and attracts one of the largest 10K fields in the United States. It is also South Carolina’s only USA Track and Field-sanctioned elite competition, meaning the event that includes local runners and charity teams also draws serious international speed. The race originated from a local effort to encourage activity in the Charleston area, and its first edition was less refined than today's event: the course was shortened after the start, water stops were absent, many runners withdrew, and some required medical attention because of the heat. The route initially began at Patriots Point and concluded at White Point Gardens, with later versions moving the finish closer to the College of Charleston. A cannon fires to start the race, referencing Charleston’s military history, and Kenyan runners have been a dominant presence at the front for decades. Modern arrangements include packet pickup, mailing options, and bus and boat transport for participants.