The 2027 Clemson 8 Challenge - "Lest We Forget"

Race Overview

Mark your calendar, as we will be hosting an in-person OFFICIALLY TIMED race at 9:00 am on Saturday, February 27, 2027, around the Clemson University campus, along with a virtual race from February 27 to March 6, 2027. The Challenge is open to the general public. CLEMSON STUDENTS, USE YOUR LOCAL ADDRESS WHEN REGISTERING AND NOT YOUR HOME ADDRESS.

Participation Details

• Format: Complete your own run, walk, bike, hike, swim, or ski in Clemson, S.C., or on your own course.
• Timeline: Participate in one day or throughout the eight days.
• JROTC Teams: High school JROTC teams will have until April 9th to complete their challenge.
• Packet Includes: A 100% cotton t-shirt, a wooden nickel, a race bib, and a window decal.

Award Opportunities

EVERY RACE DAY PARTICIPANT WILL HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO WIN SWAG FROM THE BATAAN MEMORIAL DEATH MARCH MARATHON IN NEW MEXICO.

Fundraising Goals

100% of the proceeds will benefit Clemson University's Military-Affiliated student organizations. The first six Challenges raised $139,628.54 for scholarships. The 2027 goal is to raise $19,420. Dividends from the endowment and your donations will assist in paying for multiple teams to compete in the Bataan Memorial Death March Marathon in New Mexico on March 20, 2027.

Donation Instructions

• Method: Donations can be made online during your registration or contact Amy Craft for tax-deductible options.
• Contact Details: Amy Craft at Clemson University Foundation M-F from 8:00 am - 4:30 pm EST at 864-656-1240, acserna@clemson.edu.
• Mailing Address: Clemson University Foundation, Attn: Amy Craft, P.O. Box 1889, Clemson, SC 29633. Write: Bataan Endowment.
• Direct Link: Donation Page

Sponsorship Opportunities

If you would like to become a Race Sponsor, contact John Seketa at johnseketa@gmail.com or 864-903-1487 for more information.

Historical Context

On April 9, 1942, six Clemson alumni became prisoners of war with tens of thousands of their brothers-in-arms when American troops who had been fighting in the Philippine theater of WWII were ordered to surrender to the Japanese...

Colonel Skardon's Legacy

Colonel Skardon, 104, was the last living member of this illustrious group. He was well known as the only survivor of the real Bataan Death March who walked in the annual Bataan Memorial Death March...

Events Related to the Bataan Death March

After registering for the Clemson 8 Challenge, everyone is encouraged to continue their training and participate in the 2027 in-person or virtual edition of the 38th Annual Bataan Memorial Death March at Bataan Memorial Death March.

Honoring Our Heroes

For more information on those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country from Clemson A&M College and Clemson University, visit the Clemson University Scroll of Honor website: Scroll of Honor.

Submit Results

Instructions

1. Click: The results tab on the Clemson 8 home page.
2. Submit: Click “Submit Virtual Results”. Results can ONLY be submitted from March 11th through March 18th.
3. Search: Your profile using either your name or email address.
4. Check Progress: View your progress and the progress of others from the results page.