Families gather for Kids Run in North Charleston
Families met at Riverfront Park in North Charleston on Sunday for the Cooper River Bridge Run Kids Run and Family Festival, an event designed to encourage physical activity among children, WCIV reported.
This iteration marked the first time organizers held the Kids Run specifically in North Charleston. The day featured a variety of races, games, and activities intended to promote health and wellness through movement.
Race Director Irv Batten noted that the organization has been hosting this event for nearly 40 years.
“The smiling faces when they leave. It’s just — that’s what it’s all about,” Batten said. “To get them out to have fun, enjoy, be active.”
Building lifelong fitness habits
Batten suggested that introducing running at a young age can lead to a lifestyle of physical fitness that extends through adulthood.
The impact of such community events often extends beyond a single afternoon of play.

Participant Charles Cameron attended the event with his sons, John and James. Cameron mentioned that because his children already play sports, they welcomed the opportunity to run alongside their peers, according to WCIV.
John, one of the Cameron sons, noted that he enjoyed the chance to meet new people and see friends who were also attending the festival.
Looking toward the 50th anniversary
While the Kids Run focused on the local North Charleston community, the broader organization is already preparing for a major milestone. Organizers used the event to promote the upcoming 50th Cooper River Bridge Run.
That landmark race is scheduled to take place in April 2027. According to information from bridgerun.com, the race day for that event is set for Saturday, April 3, 2027.