Clemson 8 Challenge

Clemson 8 Challenge "Lest We Forget" 2027

The Clemson 8 Challenge takes place in Clemson, South Carolina, with an in-person officially timed event on Saturday, February 27, 2027, and a virtual edition running February 27 through March 6, 2027. Registration opens November 11, 2026, and closes February 27, 2027. Registration fees range from $0.00 to $34.00.

Participants may complete a run, walk, bike, hike, swim, or ski in Clemson or on a personal course, either in one day or spread across the eight-day virtual window. High school JROTC teams have until April 9 to complete their challenge. The participant packet includes a 100% cotton t-shirt, a wooden nickel, a race bib, and a window decal. Every race day participant is eligible for swag from the Bataan Memorial Death March event.

Distances offered include:

• 800 meter kids run
• 8K (4.97 miles) run or walk
• 8 mile run or walk
• 8 mile run or walk for Clemson ROTC ruckers
• 8 mile virtual run or walk

All proceeds will benefit Clemson University’s military-affiliated student organizations. Past Challenges raised $139,628.54 and the 2027 fundraising goal is $19,420. The event commemorates the Bataan Death March and was created to enable a survivor who had participated in the Bataan Memorial Death March to continue a pilgrimage from home. Virtual challenge results can be submitted March 11 through March 18 via the event results page. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.