In early April 2025, the South Carolina State Guard (State Defense Force) once again answered the call to serve its community by providing critical support to one of the state’s most celebrated events—the Cooper River Bridge Run. The Bridge Run, held annually in Charleston, is widely recognized as one of the best organized and most well-conducted 10K races in the world. Drawing tens of thousands of runners, walkers, and spectators to South Carolina, the event promotes health, wellness, and community engagement. It is a cornerstone of Charleston’s cultural calendar and has an impressive economic impact—generating approximately $33 million in a single weekend and supporting numerous local charities through grants and partnerships.
The South Carolina State Guard, through its 1st Civil Support Brigade and auxiliary units, provided essential logistical, administrative, and security support alongside local law enforcement, including the Charleston and Mount Pleasant Police Departments. The Guard’s presence ensured smooth coordination for race operations, helping to manage the complex flow of personnel, spectators, and emergency response services during the high-traffic event. From early morning road closures to assisting with crowd management and public safety, the State Guard played a vital role in reinforcing emergency service efforts during the race.
This year’s event saw winners from around the globe, with Peter Njeru and Sarah Naibei of Kenya taking top honors in the Men’s and Women’s divisions, respectively. The wheelchair category was won by Krige Schabort of Rome, Georgia. Beginning in Mount Pleasant on Coleman Boulevard, participants crossed the iconic Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge—a visual centerpiece of the race—before reaching the finish line on Meeting Street in downtown Charleston.
In addition to celebrating athletic achievement, the 2025 Cooper River Bridge Run raised over $58,000 for charitable organizations including the Lowcountry Food Bank, MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital, Pet Helpers, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Charleston, and many more. These efforts further solidify the race’s role as a model for civic engagement and social responsibility.
The South Carolina State Guard’s continued participation in high-profile community events like the Cooper River Bridge Run underscores the vital role of State Defense Forces in supporting public safety, fostering community ties, and reinforcing emergency readiness. By standing side-by-side with civilian agencies and first responders, the State Guard demonstrates its motto in action—ready to serve, protect, and strengthen the fabric of South Carolina’s communities.
Here is a video of The South Carolina State Guard at River Bridge Run a few years ago:
Elements of the South Carolina State Guard, 1st Civil Support Brigade, assemble in preparation for the upcoming Charleston Bridge Run Saturday April 5th.
April 5th 2025, the SCSG is grateful for another year of success with the Cooper River Bridge Run! Each Spring, the personnel of the First Civil Support Brigade and auxiliary units look forward to augmenting the emergency service components of Mt Pleasant and assisting in smooth operations for all the runners. We are already anticipating next year’s run!
You GOT OVER IT!! Thank you to everyone who participated in the 2025 Bridge Run this year. We had an incredible turnout, which wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our incredible sponsors, hardworking volunteers, and of course, our runners. We can’t wait to share more about this past weekend with you all.
Sources: WCBD News 2 – South Carolina State Guard – Cooper River Bridge Run – Live 5 News
