The mix of provocative terrain - from a Revolutionary War battlefield in the Upstate to a 400-foot-deep quarry in the Midlands to Charleston's beautiful Historic District in the Lowcountry - offers vistas and venues to suit every taste and skill level.
Five of South Carolina's most popular spring running events include:
Cooper River Bridge Run: Charleston's recreational phenomenon, this 10K race will funnel some 35,000 runners over the longest cable-stayed bridge in North America through the city's famed Historic District. Cheering fans and a dozen bands playing on the sidelines add to the party atmosphere. March 28. For more information and to register online: http://bridgerun.com/.
Divas Half Marathon and 5K: Pack up your boas and bling along with your running shoes for this glam women's event in North Myrtle Beach. All participants will receive pink tutus with their registration. Runners who finish the half-marathon will be awarded an appropriately glitzy Divas medal in the shape of a crown. April 12. To register or learn more about the race: http://www.runlikeadiva.com/Events/Divas__Half_Marathon___5K_-_North_Myrtle_Beach.htm.
Quarry Crusher Run: Don't let the 3.72-mile length of this course fool you. It's tough going for runners who rock this race as they descend a 10-percent grade to the floor of the 400-foot-deep Vulcan Quarry in Columbia. Along with bragging rights for completing this challenging foot race, participants will have the chance to view a landscape generally closed to the public. April 18. To get details on the race and register online: http://quarrycrusherrun.com/.
Where the Wild Things Run 5K: Go wild on the scenic nature trails at the Ravenel Caw Caw Interpretive Center, a former Lowcountry rice plantation now preserved as habitat for a wide array of wildlife, including American alligators, swallow-tailed kites and bald eagles. April 25. For all the information you need on the race: https://www.ccprc.com/1455/Where-the-Wild-Things-Run-5K.
Kings Mountain Marathon and Half-Marathon: This challenging Piedmont course takes you over the rolling hills of Blacksburg, where Revolutionary War patriots won their first major battle in the South, turning the tide on England's attempt to conquer the South. May 2. For race information and registration forms: http://www.kingsmountainmarathon.com/.
