2025 Bright Ideas 5K

Let's romp in the swamp!

We're back!

Everybody's favorite 5K will take to the trails once again on April 26, 2025!

We're excited to be accepting race applications and sponsorships for the 4th Annual Bright Ideas 5K sponsored by Cooperative Building Solutions. We will be back at beautiful Cypress Gardens on Saturday, April 26 with our unique mixed terrain course that winds its way through a blackwater swamp.

The race kicks off at 8 a.m. and helps raise money to directly benefit local teachers through our Bright Ideas educational grant program. Proceeds from the race fund grants of up to $1,500 to support innovative and effective classroom projects that aren't otherwise covered by the school. We will award the grants to the winning teachers during the race awards ceremony so be sure to stick around and show them some love! 

We are also looking for sponsors to help make this race possible. If you would like to make a difference in the lives of Lowcountry teachers and students, be sure to fill out the sponsorship form

Click here to see a list of winning teachers and more information about the Bright Ideas Education Grants!

Date: Saturday, April 26 (rain or shine)
Start Time: 8:00 a.m.
Location: Cypress Gardens, 3030 Cypress Gardens Road • Moncks Corner, SC 29461

The race will feature a chip start with timed racing bibs. The race course features a mix of paved, gravel, and dirt trails with roots and boardwalks. Strollers are not recommended. 

  • Race course map
  • Get a first-person view of the race course
  • Packet pick-up will be available the day before the race and the morning of race day
  • Racers can sign up until the morning of the race (will receive finisher medal but no guaranteed race shirt)
  • Early bird pricing $35 - ends March 3

Cypress Gardens is a gorgeous blackwater swamp located in Berkeley county. It has been featured in national magazines, popular television shows and motion pictures including The Notebook and The Patriot. Attractions include picturesque views along 3.5 miles of trails, swamp boat tours, an aquarium/reptile center and more!

Be sure to join us at the race village after the run to honor local teachers receiving a Bright Ideas Grant. Don't forget that your race fee includes admission to Cypress Gardens so feel free to explore after the event.

  • Main gates close at 7:45 a.m. and will not re-open until 9 a.m.
  • Parking is free but limited - carpool if possible
  • A free shuttle will be available from overflow parking
  • Pets are not allowed

This year's designs will feature the iconic Cypress Garden boats. Check back soon to see the designs!

Also, be sure to sign up by 3/17 to be guaranteed a race t-shirt!

None of this would have been possible without our amazing sponsors! Check out who helped support education in the Lowcountry and be sure to tell them thanks!

BECOME A SPONSOR! Your sponsorship not only makes this event possible it also makes a difference in the lives of Lowcountry students and teachers!

For more information please contact:

Libby Roerig, Manager of Communications

Berkeley Electric Cooperative  843-719-8531 / libbyr@bec.coop

Bright Ideas 5K - 2024 Recap

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