The Clemson 8 Challenge

🏃‍♂️ Clemson 8 Challenge Overview

• Event Date: Saturday, March 8, 2025 at 9:00 am
• Participation: In-person race or virtual race from March 8-15, 2025
• Activities: Walk, run, bike, hike, swim, or ski
• Location: Clemson, S.C. or your own course

🎽 Participant Packet

• Includes: 100% cotton Comfort Colors t-shirt or Gildan brand tank top
• Additional Items: Military ribbon, wooden nickel, race bib, and window decal
• Prize Money: No prize money awarded for this event
• Beneficiary: Benefits Clemson University Military Affiliated student organizations

💰 Donations and Sponsorship

• How to Donate: Online during registration or contact Amy Craft for tax deduction options
• Email: acserna@clemson.edu
• Donation Link: Click here
• Sponsorship Contact: John Seketa at johnseketa@gmail.com or call 864-903-1487

🕊️ Historical Significance

• Background: Six Clemson alumni became POWs during the Bataan Death March on April 9, 1942
• Tragic Toll: Thousands died during the march: at least 57% of captured Americans did not survive the war
• Colonel Skardon: The last living member of this group, participated in the Bataan Memorial Death March multiple times
• Legacy: The Clemson 8 Challenge allows participants to honor those who sacrificed their lives

📜 About Colonel Skardon

• Acknowledgment: Awarded a star and rank of Honorary Brigadier General on Veteran's Day 2021
• Pioneer: Walked in the BMDM at 101 to honor his fellow veterans
• Event Creation: The challenge was established to allow him to continue his pilgrimage
• Memorialization: 8 miles represents the annual walk to honor fallen soldiers

📅 Participation and Results Submission

• Encouragement: Participants are urged to join the 36th Annual Bataan Memorial Death March
• Event Link: Click here for details
• Submit Virtual Results: Follow instructions on the Clemson 8 home page during the designated date range
• Related Resource: For more information, visit the Clemson University Scroll of Honor: Click here

🌍 Honoring the POWs

• Known Alumni: A list of 24 known Clemson graduates and 1 former student who were POWs
• World War II Notables: Included are notable names such as Captain Theodore Cuyler Bigger and Army 1LT Martin Crook, Jr.
• Korean and Vietnam Wars: Honors also extend to those who served in these conflicts
• Legacy Preservation: Upholding the memory of the sacrifices made by Clemson alumni

📝 Finish Line

For more details and to register, visit the official race page: Click here.