Sports Blog

Get #FamouslyHot & Cocky with Gamecock Baseball

This Thursday, May 17, be one of the first few people through the gate at Carolina Stadium for the South Carolina Gamecocks v. LSU Tigers Baseball game to cheer on our back-to-back NCAA CWS National Champions and get Famously Hot & Cocky! We’ll be there to welcome you with Famously Hot t-shirts, stickers, face tattoos, fans, and visitors guides.

Look around the stadium for Cocky, who will be wearing a “Famously Hot” sweatband. Snap a picture with Cocky and tweet it with this message “Hanging out with @Cocky2001! We’re getting #famouslyhotandcocky at @Gamecockbasebll in @columbiasc!”

Also, be sure to stop by the Columbia Regional Visitors Centerbefore the game to pick up some gear!

• Famously Hot t-shirts for $9.99 (Check in to the Visitors Center on Foursquare for a $5 discount). Or customize your own shirt and order online at our Zazzle store.
• Famously Hot & Cocky tattoos for FREE
• Famously Hot & Cocky car magnetsfor $5
• Gamecock Encore: The 2011 University of South Carolina Baseball Team's Run to Back-to-Back NCAA Championships by Travis Haney

The Visitors Center is located on the upper level of Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center in the Congaree Vista. Visitors Center hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Sunday from 1:00 to 5:00 pm.


Looking for things to do or a place to stay while you're here for the game? Look for more information at columbiacvb.com. Keep up with the Sports Council via Facebook and Twitter.

Last chance to register for the Spring 2012 USMC Mud Run!

Some come to compete, but many come just to complete!
     
Registration for the USMC Mud Run ends on Sunday, April 1, 2012! The run will be held on April 21 at 7:30 am at the Leatherneck in Sandy Run, SC. The Leatherneck is a private property that is not generally open to the public - visit the official Mud Run website for specific directions.

The mud run is a challenge for runners at any level. Unlike any other trail run or 5K you may have done in the past, the Mud Run takes your ability and pushes it to the limit. The 5.2 mile course follows a obstacle-filled path, facing you (and your teammates) with walls to scale, ropes to climb, logs to cross, and mud to conquer. All activities must be completed by every team member, requiring teamwork to play a large role in the race's completion.
Gather together 3 friends and register your team of four for $160.00. All proceeds benefit the United States Marine Corps. Not a runner? You can still make a donation and participate vicariously through the thousands of runners that are estimated to run in April. If you can't make this spring's race but would still like to run, keep an eye out for the Mud Run scheduled for October 13, 2012. 




About the Mud Run:

Since 1993, the Greater Columbia Marine Foundation has hosted the USMC Ultimate Challenge Mud Run which has grown to attract participants from all across the United States. In 2010, the USMC Ultimate Challenge Mud Run reached capacity with 3,600 teams and over 14,000 participants, making this the LARGEST Mud Run in North America. Because of the overwhelming response, the Foundation made the decision to host two events per year. This will allow organizers to provide a higher quality event for everyone involved.

This semi-annual event was created to raise money, awareness and support for Marines and their families around Columbia, SC and across the nation who have been wounded or killed while serving on active duty. Profits from the Mud Run are also used to support several local college scholarships which have been named in memory of Marines killed serving their country as well as local events which promote the Marine Corps in the community.

View photos from past mud runs on our Facebook and Flickr pages.

Keep up with the USMC Ultimate Challenge Mud Run on facebook and twitter. For more information visit usmcmudrun.org

Sports Council's Efforts Generate Over One Million Dollars for Columbia Region

Columbia, S.C. (Friday, March 2, 2012) - With an objective to draw sporting events to the region, Columbia Regional Sports Council is proud to announce the sports events scheduled for March will generated an estimated economic impact of more than $1 million.

"Our Sports Council works tirelessly with sporting directors and event managers across the nation professing why the Columbia region is the best location for their sporting events," said Ric Luber, president and CEO of the Midlands Authority for Conventions, Sports & Tourism. "Their efforts play a large role in helping sustain tourism and increase visitor spending across the Columbia region."

The numerous sporting events are slated to bring over 35,000 athletes and families during the month; occupying roughly 1800 hotel rooms.

March events include:

March 2-3 2012 UCF War of the Stars Columbia Metropolitan
Convention Center

March 2-3 2011-2012 SCHSL Basketball State Finals Colonial Life Arena

March 10 2012 Columbia SC ‘Famously Hot' Marathon Downtown Columbia

March 10-16 2012 Bucknell Spring Training Richland County Rowing Facility

March 11-18 2012 Vassar Rowing Spring Training Richland County Rowing Facility

March 16-18 YBOA Super Regional Championships Allen University gym Greenview,
Denny Terrace, Meadowlake & Killian gyms

March 17-23 Hobart & William Smith Spring Training Richland County Rowing Facility

March 23-25 Big Shots Basketball Tournament Keenan High School

March 25 2012 Downtown Columbia Triathlon Downtown Columbia


About Columbia Regional Sports Council:
The mission of the Columbia Regional Sports Council is to strengthen the area's economy by marketing and selling the Columbia, SC region (City of Columbia, Lexington County, Richland County) as a premier destination for sporting events, partnering with local sports organizations to grow and develop existing events, and by recruiting new events which provide an economic benefit to the region by generating room nights, food and beverage sales, and associated tax revenues. For more information, please visit www.columbiasportscouncil.com.

About the Midlands Authority for Conventions, Sports & Tourism:
The Midlands Authority for Conventions, Sports & Tourism is a private, not-for-profit corporation funded primarily by revenue generated by visitors through accommodations taxes and is the parent organization of Columbia Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau, Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, and Columbia Regional Sports Council. The mission of the Midlands Authority is to strengthen the area's economy by marketing and selling Columbia, its accommodations, restaurants, facilities and attractions as a destination for meetings, conventions, tradeshows, special events and leisure travel. For more information, please visit www.columbiacvb.com.

TONIGHT: Colonial Life Arena Goes Carbon Neutral at Gamecocks Basketball Game

Tonight, Wednesday, February 29, 2012, Colonial Life Arena will help the University of South Carolina in its mission to be carbon neutral during the USC vs. Mississippi State Men’s Basketball game at 8:00 p.m. The initiative is being spearheaded by USC students and cross country athletes, Erin Fedewa and Nicole Rheinlander.

“The idea for a carbon neutral athletic event took shape when Nicole and I began to realize that as student-athletes, our sporting events produce carbon emissions and, in turn, leave a carbon footprint on the environment,” Erin Fedewa said.

Gamecock Athletics and the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee’s Green Initiatives Team will be joining together to host a USC first: a game in which all of the carbon emissions produced from team and fan travel, energy, electricity and waste will be matched by carbon offsets. In order for the game to be a net zero event, student-athletes have been planting trees and exchanging energy efficient light bulbs around campus. Emissions will also be offset by replacing incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs. The newly installed light bulbs are 75% more energy efficient than standard bulbs. Tree plantings and light bulb exchanges will continue after the basketball game to achieve the carbon offset target based on game energy reports.
 
 “Climate change and greenhouse gas emissions are a growing concern for many universities and especially their students. Our first carbon neutral athletic event is a great example of our students demonstrating leadership and action in developing and implementing ways to offset our impact on the environment. We expect the example they and other students are setting across our campus will lead us to achieving our goals,” Michael Koman, director of the USC Office of Sustainability said.

“Colonial Life Arena is committed to educating our patrons on the importance of going green,” Global Spectrum’s Lexie Boone, general manager at Colonial Life Arena said. “We continue to expand our own efforts to be environmentally friendly while always striving to aid in the university’s progress toward becoming a more sustainable campus.”

Tip off for the USC vs. Mississippi State Men’s Basketball game will be at 8:00 pm. Doors will open at 6:30 pm. Tickets for USC Men’s and Women’s Basketball may be purchased at gamecocksonline.com or at the Lexington Medical Center Box Office inside Colonial Life Arena.

Win Tickets to SC High School Basketball Finals

South Carolina High School League basketball finals will be held this weekend at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, SC. You could win up to four tickets to the event each day, plus Famously Hot t-shirts.

Basketball team finalists from public high schools all over South Carolina, from class A to AAAA, will converge in the capital city to compete for the state title in their respective divisions. The basketball championships will be held March 2-3, 2012 at the state's largest arena. Cash-only admission is $10.00 each day at Colonial Life Arena. Children ages five and under are admitted free. If you leave, you must pay to re-enter. Gates open at 6:00 pm on Friday and 10:00 am on Saturday. Handheld posters, signs and noise makers are not allowed. General parking is available at the arena for $5.00 per car. Discounted hotel rates are available at Clarion Hotel Downtown, Courtyard by Marriott Columbia Downtown at USC, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Fort Jackson and Riverside Inn by mentioning discount code "High School," with rates ranging from $58.00 to $99.00 per night.

BASKETBALL STATE FINALS SCHEDULE
Friday, March 2, 2012
Gates open - 6:00 pm
AAAA Girls - Orangeburg-Wilkinson vs Dutch Fork - 7:00 pm
AAAA Boys - Lexington vs Gaffney - 8:30 pm

Saturday, March 3, 2012
Gates open - 10:00 am
A Girls - Abbeville vs Timmonsville - 11:00 am
A Boys - Great Falls vs Johnsonville - 1:00 pm
AA Girls - Columbia vs Bishop England - 2:30 pm
AA Boys - Newberry vs North Charleston - 4:30 pm
AAA Girls - Wade Hampton vs Dreher - 6:00 pm
AAA Boys - Southside vs Hartsville - 8:00 pm
Watch the action live on the SCHSL network or on demand on Time Warner Cable on channel 522.

2012 ‘Famously Hot’ Columbia SC Marathon: Preview Run

This past weekend I took to the streets with roughly 45 other running enthusiasts for a sneak peak at the 2012 ‘Famously Hot’ Columbia SC Marathon course. From the beginning, the course wakes you up with a steep incline up Blossom Street on the campus of the University of South Carolina. Me being the, “wanna be really good runner, but just ok runner” that I am felt every step, but made it up the hill thanks to my running buddies Justin Bieber, Adele, Justin Timberlake and Rihanna. (Judgment is most definitely not allowed).

From there we started to wind in and through Old Shandon, and, after conquering the mammoth of a hill on Saluda (take this one slow my friends), I have to say it was a nice and pleasant run in this part of town. Looking at the unmatched charm and quaintness of the homes in this area made passing mile three and four bearable.


While there is a fairly long stretch of flat road along Kilbourne, it feels like it just won’t end; like you’re running into an abyss or something. I really had to crank up the jams, open up my stride and just go for it. Don’t be fooled into thinking this is half way kids. You’re really just getting started!

At the end of that long run, there is a much needed and beloved aid station at mile six. Having only run one half in the past, I love the aid stations. They’re exciting when you see them on the horizon; like they are there just for you! “Orange slice? Yes. Water? Yes. Granola bar? Well duh!! I, along with any new runners, should be careful at these aid stations. While they are there to help and hydrate, they aren’t there to provide a four course meal. Grab a little bite (if you need it) and keep running!

While I didn’t make it through the whole course (I’m still in training my friends) I did really appreciate seeing what I’m going to facing on the actual day of the race. I would encourage any and everyone planning on running the 10K, half or full marathon to come out to the next Columbia SC Marathon Preview Run, Saturday, February 4 at 7 a.m. at Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. I’ll see you on the course!

2012 Tour de Lake Bicycle Tours of Lake Murray

All rides will leave at 7:30 am from the Wetlands Pavilion at Saluda Shoals Park and follow the same route to the second rest stop near Dreher Island. All bikes will be padded, secured and transported from Dreher Island back to Saluda Shoals Park. All bikes will be padded, secured and transported from Dreher Island back to Saluda Shoals Park. Vans will pick up all riders at the Lake Murray Dam and return them to Saluda Shoals Park to reunite with their bikes.

More Information on Bike Routes:

The 100 mile “Century” route will continue on around Lake Murray and return to Saluda Shoals Park.

The 40 mile route will end at Dreher Island State Park. The 62.5 mile “Metric Century” route will complete an additional 22.5 mile route and will also end at Dreher Island State Park. Riders of these routes will then board the Southern Patriot for a cruise back to the Lake Murray Dam.

The Southern Patriot will depart at 12:00 pm and arrive at the Lake Murray Dam between 2:00 and 3:00 pm. Food, beer and other beverages will be available on board.

Food, beer, and other beverages will also be available at Saluda Shoals Park from 12:00 to 6:00 pm.  The staff at Saluda Shoals Park will have multiple activities throughout the day which riders and their families and friends are welcome to attend. Visit our website, tourdelake.com, for more information and to register.

Sponsorships Opportunities
We welcome organizations, large and small, that desire to support the Tour de Lake and promote their business through on-site displays or advertising in our media campaign. For more information, contact Brooks Williams, (803) 753- 6356.

Resolution to run the Columbia SC Marathon

After you've had your fill of collards and black eyed peas, we have the perfect resolution for you! Make a resolution to get in shape and start training for the Columbia SC Marathon. Having not held a marathon since the Women’s US Olympic Team Trials in 2000, the city of Columbia is set to host its first marathon in 12 years. The 2012 Columbia SC Marathon, Famously Hot Half-Marathon, Surprisingly Cool 10K, and Columbia SC Kids Marathon, presented by YMCA of Columbia, will take place on March 10, 2012.


Starting at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, the first leg of the race takes runners through the popular Congraee Vista district, rich with a variety of restaurants, art galleries and retailers. Located along the banks of the Congaree River, the Congaree Vista was once a vital warehouse district filled with textile mills and railroad stations. Today it is once again a center of activity in the city.

The course continues through parts of South Carolina’s largest public university, the University of South Carolina. If runners glance to the right during their cross over Assembly Street, they will see where the Fighting Gamecocks play, Williams-Brice Stadium! The Columbia campus is the university’s flagship campus and boasts traditional southern architecture with beautiful landscaping. The ever-expanding campus has more than 350 programs of study for almost 30,000 students from all over the globe.

Continuing into Five Points, participants run through the historic neighborhoods of Shandon, Sherwood Forest, Heathwood and Lake Katherine, all showcasing homes and bungalows with Southern charm, class and character. The Five Points area has been a shopping and commercial district for more than 75 years. This charming City Village has remained a popular destination for all ages to shop and dine, and is also the heart of nightlife for area college students. Shandon is a vibrant, multi-generational community whose homes reflect one hundred years of architectural heritage. The wide, tree-lined streets are favorites of residents and others who stroll, walk, jog or run, while the neighborhood children and adults enjoy the pleasant parks spaced throughout the urban suburb.

After completing the portion of the course near gorgeous Lake Katherine, runners will make their way back toward downtown Columbia, running along popular Trenholm Road. This area is a diner’s dream, offering restaurants specializing in authentic Mexican, Italian, Asian and American cuisine.

Before heading back into the Congraee Vista area, where marathon runner’s will start their second loop, runners will continue on Gervais Street, running pass the South Carolina State House. Right in the hub of downtown Columbia, the copper domed South Carolina State House houses the government of South Carolina. Construction began on the structure in 1851, and damage to the building from General Sherman’s cannons is marked with bronze stars. The State House serves as an anchor facing the thriving Main Street corridor; a street filled with unique restaurants, retail shops, rooftop bars and Columbia’s Museum of Art.

The last mile of the course will take runners back through the University of South Carolina campus on Pickens Street, Greene Street and Sumter Street and past well-known campus landmarks including, The Russell House, Longstreet Theater and The Horseshoe. Part of USC’s original campus dates back to 1805 and is still the heart of the University. The 11 buildings that make up the tradition-rich Horseshoe frame a lush lawn that is an irresistible gathering place for students, faculty, local residences and alumni.

A block of rooms have been reserved for March 8-11, 2012 at the Hilton Columbia Center and Hampton Inn Downtown Historic District. The special room rate will be available until February 9 or until the group block is sold-out, whichever comes first. Both the Hilton and Hampton Inn are located just 1 block from the Marathon and Half-Marathon start. Additional hotels in the surrounding area are also available.

2012 Gamecock Football Schedule Announced

Though we're still cooling down from a 10-win season in 2011, it's time to start thinking of 2012 Gamecock football, South Carolina Gamecock fans! The University of South Carolina, in conjunction with the SEC's 14-team conference game schedule, has officially announced the 2012 schedule, and we're getting excited for another hot season.

DAY/DATE	OPPONENT	SITE
Thursday, Aug. 30	Vanderbilt*	Nashville, Tenn.
Saturday, Sept. 8	East Carolina	Columbia, S.C.
Saturday, Sept. 15	UAB	Columbia, S.C.
Saturday, Sept. 22	Missouri*	Columbia, S.C.
Saturday, Sept. 29	Kentucky*	Lexington, Ky.
Saturday, Oct. 6	Georgia*	Columbia, S.C.
Saturday, Oct. 13	LSU*	Baton Rouge, La.
Saturday, Oct. 20	Florida*	Gainesville, Fla.
Saturday, Oct. 27	Tennessee*	Columbia, S.C.
Saturday, Nov. 3	OPEN	OPEN
Saturday, Nov. 10	Arkansas*	Columbia, S.C.
Saturday, Nov. 17	Wofford	Columbia, S.C.
Saturday, Nov. 24	Clemson	Clemson, S.C.

There's nothing like the unmatched tailgating and roar of Gamecock football at Williams-Brice Stadium, so start planning your visit now! Check out the upcoming games and book your room now.

SportsEvents Readers: Thank you!

We are excited to announce that Columbia Regional Sports Council has received a SportsEvents Readers' Choice Award! We want to send a big "thank you" to the readers of SportsEvents Magazine for choosing us an award-worthy resource in planning and hosting sports groups!

Every year, the January issue of SportsEvents highlights some of the United States most creative and professional convention and visitors bureaus, sports commissions and venues. Nominations were made by sports events owners and planners who receive the magazine monthly, identifying and voting on venues and commissions they believe display exemplary creativity and professionalism toward groups.

“Due to the power of social media and online voting capabilities, we received an overwhelming response from readers this year, which allowed SportsEvents to honor more than 100 destinations and venues—and the marketing organizations that represent them—with a 2012 Readers’ Choice Award,” said Kristen McIntosh, SportsEvents editor. “These award winners have proven they are willing to go above and beyond the normal service levels expected by providing both the physical attributes and commitment to hospitality and service that today’s discriminating sports event planners demand. It is an honor to announce their selection by sports event planners as some of the best in the United States.”

Look for the winners in the January 2012 issue or view the full list of recipients at SportsEvents online.

Thanks again, SportsEvents readers!

2nd Annual Smokin at the Speedway: BBQ Cook Off, Fall-O-Ween & Car Show

3rd Annual Long's Bar Stool Classic in Five Points

Ever wanted to putt-putt your way through Five Points bars and restaurants? Here's your chance!

On Friday, September 16, 2011 the Babcock Center Foundation along with the Five Points Association will be hosting the 3rd Annual Long's Bar Stool Classic starting at 5:00 pm.

Columbia, SC Sports Natural Hot Spots

Columbia, SC boasts more than a thriving downtown with rich history and Southern charm. This centrally-located South Carolina hot spot offers beautiful and unique natural venues accommodating a variety of sports events. Its three distinct rivers, scenic lakes, forests and parks distinguish this capital city as a superior location for sports events and recreation.

The Broad River features three miles of unobstructed, calm water, making the perfect venue rowing winter and spring training. With mild temperatures and water that never freezes, the Broad River has been the training location of choice for over 40 rowing teams since 2003. Richland County rowing facility offers teams a purpose-built 100-foot rowing dock as well as near-perfect water for training.

The Saluda River’s Class II to IV rapids – including Stacy’s Ledge, Blast o’matic and Mill Race Rapids – make an exceptional whitewater experience. In 2007, the Saluda River set hosted the IFC Junior Wildwater World Championship, the first international whitewater competition held in the United States, where more than 120 competitors from 15 different countries competed.

Formed as Saluda and Broad rivers meet, the Congaree River calmly flows through the heart of Columbia and offers a scenic venue for events or recreation just steps from thriving entertainment districts. The Congaree River flows through South Carolina’s only national park, Congaree National Park, which offers 22,000 acres including over 20 miles of hiking trails, canoeing, kayaking and fishing. The majestic park features the largest remnant of old-growth floodplain forest remaining on the continent and contains some of the tallest trees in Eastern North America.

Further up the Saluda River, 50,000-acre Lake Murray stretches 41 miles long and up to 14 miles wide. The lake offers canoeing through calm waters, sailing through cutting winds, boating, swimming and fishing. Dreher Island State Park’s 348 acres and 12 miles of shoreline hosts many major fishing tournaments, including Walmart FLW Tour and B.A.S.S. Bassmaster.

Off the water, Harbison State Forest encompasses 2,177 acres of forestland less than ten miles from the downtown district. Its unique urban location offers a surprising 16 miles of trails that weave through the pine and hardwood forest, crossing wandering streams and descending through leafy glades to the Broad River. Events such as the EXTERRA Harbison Half Marathon use the scenic trails to offer competitors a truly unique 13.1 mile course.

The United States Marine Corps Mud Run, hosted for nearly 20 years in Columbia, is counted as one of the most successful and creative uses of natural terrain. Combined with man-made obstacles, the 5.2-mile course has hosted over 14,000 participants, making it the largest mud run in North America.

With more than 300 days of sunshine and year-round temperate weather, Columbia, SC sends a warm invitation for competitors, trainers, trainees or simply those seeking to enjoy the many natural venues. Let Columbia, SC be your New Southern Hot Spot for your next sporting event.

Contact Scott Powers, Executive Director of Columbia Regional Sports Council, at spowers@columbiasportscouncil.com or (803) 545-0004 for more information.

10th Annual Palmetto Capital City Classic: "It's more than a game...it's an experience!"

It's almost that time of year that we've all been waiting for -- football season -- and with football season comes the Palmetto Capital City Classic! Fall is just around the corner, and this game is sure to bring excitement to the Columbia region.

September 3, 2011 will mark the 10th Annual Palmetto Capital City Classic, an ultimate college football experience. The Benedict College Tigers will take on the Virginia Union University Panthers at the Charlie W. Johnson Stadium with kickoff scheduled for 5:00 pm. The primary mission of the event is to generate revenue for scholarships and financial support for Historically Black Colleges and Universities by highlighting the educational and athletic endeavors through quality athletes, academic programs, sportsmanship and school pride.

Broad River Sculls kicks off River Rocks Festival

The Broad River Sculls, a rowing regatta, will be held on Saturday morning, May 28 from 8:00 am to Noon at the Richland County Rowing Center, 1871 Omarest Drive, Columbia, SC. Forty male and female entries from age 13 to 76 and representing nine rowing organizations from SC, NC, GA, TN and MN will compete in single, double and quadruple sculls over a 1000 meter course. The public is invited. Admission is free.

The regatta is presented by Columbia Rowing Club in conjunction with the River Rocks Festival, a fundraiser for the Congaree Riverkeeper. Columbia Rowing Club is a 501(c)3 public charity dedicated to educating the public about the benefits of the sport of rowing and making the sport available to all Midlands residents. Proceeds from the Broad River Scull will benefit Youth Rowing, a program of Columbia Rowing Club.
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New Car Show at Love Chevrolet Columbia Speedway Festival and RacersReunion

There are several interesting changes for the third annual Love Chevrolet Columbia Speedway Festival and RacersReunion returning April 14-16. One that will interest many area car buffs is the new car show format.
Event organizers have listened to the suggestions coming from show car participants at the previous RacersReunion events and have decided to make a significant change. This year’s car show (Saturday April 16th), simply titled “The Car Show at RacersReunion” is sponsored by The Trophy and Gift Shop in Cayce, SC and will be open to all years and makes for only a $10.00 entry fee. The entry fee will also cover the event admission ($5.00) for one person. The show will be professionally judged and organizers expect a great turn-out for this year’s event.

Other changes to the event format include moving the Friday night cruise-in to Maurice’s BBQ. Cruisers will gather there at 5:00 PM Friday and Cruise back to Historic Columbia Speedway at 6:00 PM for the Lizard’s Thicket Fish Fry and concert by Black Bottom Biscuits. The parade has been moved from Friday night to Saturday morning. Leaving the Kmart parking lot in West Columbia at 9:00 AM the “50 Years of Love” parade will kick off Saturdays’ events.

This year’s RacersReunion actually gets going on Thursday April 14th at 6:00 PM for a “Chicken Bog Cook-off” and Etheridge and Kimpland concert followed by the “Candle Light Track Walk”. Friday night begins with the “Maurice’s BBQ Cruise-in” and ends with the “Lizard’s Thicket Fish Fry” and concert. In addition to “50 Years of Love Parade” and “The Car Show at RacersReunion”, Saturday’s activities include a vintage race car exhibit and an autograph session with legendary racing celebrities such as Harry Gant, Waddell Wilson, Barry Dodson, Billy Scott, Don Tilley, Paul Lewis, Ned Jarrett and many more. For the first time ever on the RacersReunion stage, attendees will hear the eleven-year-old singing sensation Macayla Reese singing two songs that were written for, but never sang by, Patsy Cline.

Historic Columbia Speedway is located at 2001 Charleston Highway in Cayce, SC. For more details see the Stock Car RacersReunion events calendar at www.RacersReunion.com.

Contributed by guest blogger, Jeff Gilder, president at RacersReunion, Inc. Keep up with Historic Columbia Speedway on Facebook.

Palmetto200 Start Times Announced

Start times have been announced for this year's Palmetto200 relay race from Columbia to Charleston, SC. This year's 2nd annual event features over 50 teams, with some pretty interesting names. What's your favorite team name?
Team and start time are listed below. More detailed information can be found here.

Cook-Offs, Cars and Crowns Liven Up Historic Columbia Speedway

Men in skirts (kilts) toss tree trunks (cabers) at Tartan Day South

Highland Games will make its first appearance in Columbia, S.C., on April 2, 2011, from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Historic Columbia Speedway in Cayce. Highland Athletics are nine strength based competitions that predate recorded history. In the caber toss, competitors toss and flip a tree trunk measuring over 18 feet. The games are only a part of a much larger Celtic celebration labeled Tartan Day South . The celebration will include nine hours of live music, Celtic dancing, pipe bands, herding demonstrations, British car and motorcycle show, artisans and much more. The festival promises patrons the opportunity to enjoy true Irish and Scottish culture just five minutes from the Statehouse and Downtown Columbia.

Tartan Day South was created around National Tartan Day, April 6, to recognize that Americans of Scottish descent have played a "vibrant and influential role in the development of the United States." The festival was developed in Columbia because of the tremendous concentration of Irish and Scottish descendents in South and North Carolina.

"The [Historic Columbia] Speedway lends itself perfectly for handling an event of this nature. The nine acre grass infield provides the space necessary to hold multiple activities at the same time. The venue offers plenty of parking just moments from downtown and I-26," said Donavan Murray, President of Celtic Force Enterprises, a company that helps produce other such festivals around the region.

The event will be the kick-off to the Highland Games season throughout the Southeast. The celebration begins Friday, April 1, with a dinner and reception at the event's host hotel, the Holiday Inn & Suites Columbia-Airport on McSwain Drive in West Columbia. The evening will host a whisky tasting as well as a kilt fashion show with live music to season the night. The event moves to the Speedway on Saturday, April 2, for a full day of festivities.

Highland Athletics are in many ways the precursor to many of our current track and field events. These events will be done old school in a manner established hundreds of years ago wearing traditional kilts. The events include the stone toss (16 and 22 pound), hammer throw, weight for distance (28 and 56 pound), weight for height (56 pound), sheaf toss over a bar, and the caber toss. Professionals and amateurs will be competing at Tartan Day South for season long points.

The festival will be full of cultural demonstrations like bag piping, drumming, Irish step, Scottish country, and Highland dancing. A "Bird of Prey" organization will demonstrate the art of falconry while border collies show off their sheep herding prowess. The Palmetto Fencers will perform swordsmanship demonstrations. Artist and storytellers will be on hand to truly give a full flavor of the Celtic experience. True to the speedway's heritage, cars of the British Isles will be on display.

If you do not own your own kilt, there will be a Celtic marketplace with an array of unique products to take the experience home. A taste of the British Isles will be provided by Celtic vendors as well as standard American fare. There will be plenty of educational opportunities and play areas for the kids. They will even be given their time on the field in a mini-game, hands on activity.

Celtic Music will fill the air at the festival with live performances from no less than eight bands. The line-up includes:

RATHKELTAIR is one of North America's premier Celtic rock bands. Based in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, and touring internationally since 2003, delivers one of the most energetic, entertaining, audience-friendly shows you will see anywhere.

BARLEYJUICE was born out of Rock and Roll, reared on British Invasion, Country Western and Progressive Rock, and landed somewhere in the North Channel with a penchant for all things Celtic.
THE BLESSED BLEND are NAMMY nominated musicians composing and performing original and ancient songs blending Native American and Celtic music.

CUTTHROAT SHAMROCK hails from the land of blue smoke and white lightening, and manage to meld the traditions of Ireland, the rhythms of Appalachia and the bite of punk into every setting they invoke.

THISTLEDOWN TINKERS, seasoned music veterans from N.C., weave traditional Scottish and Irish music with original creations while adding a southern swagger that sets the stage on fire.

DAVEY MORRISON, musician, sculptor, writer and native son of Scotland, now lives in the U.S., but embodies the uniqueness of the Celtic spirit. Davey will be singing songs, playing flute, telling stories and passing on his experiences as a Scot that relocated to America.

MARCILLE WALLIS, an accomplished hammer dulcimer player, has been captivating music lovers of all ages with haunting melodies from Brittany and Galicia, rousing reels and jigs from Ireland, and traditional Scottish pipe tunes with a non-traditional twist.

Colm O'Brian & Sean Conner from Dublin will fill out the all day music presentations.

Clans and heritage organizations will be on hand to discuss their family's role in Celtic history. This year's honored groups include The Ancient Order of Hibernians, Society of Scottish Armigers, and The Charleston Scottish Society. Along with the Clan organizations other experts will be on-hand to provide genealogy information and assist you in finding your family tartan.

The featured charity, Celtic Heritage International Exchange Foundation, facilitates the exchange of young musicians and artist between the US and the Celtic nations. The 501C-3 non-profit organization is based in the upstate of South Carolina.

The Historic Columbia Speedway is located approximately one mile past Maurice's Piggy Park at 2001 Charleston Highway in Cayce. Traveling on I-26 take exit 115 then proceed about 1.5 miles back towards downtown on Highway 321.

The parking is complimentary, and admission at the gate is $10.00 or $5.00 for children ages 5 to 12. There is no admission fee for children under 5. Special family rates are available online for presale until March 28. For more information, visit tartandaysouth.com or contact John Banks at (803) 665-7620.

2012 Columbia Marathon Course Map Now Online

The Columbia Regional Sports Council would like to announce the route for the 2012 Columbia Marathon can be viewed online. Runners interested in viewing details of the course may visit www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/27127322. The 2012 Columbia Marathon will be held Saturday, March 10, 2012. It will be a USATF certified and Boston Qualifier event.

Mid-Carolina Rifle Club presents 9th Annual Toys for Tots Action Pistol Match

Event benefits the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program

Since 2001, Mid-Carolina Rifle Club, located at 3462 Fish Hatchery Road in Gaston, has been hosting it's annual Toys for Tots Action Pistol Match benefiting the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program. The 9th Annual Toys for Tots Action Pistol Match will be Saturday, December 11. Registration will begin at 8:00 a.m. and shooting will begin promptly at 9:00 a.m. In lieu of a match entry fee, competitors are asked to donate a toy valued at $20 or more to the Toys for Tots program. Cash donations are also welcomed. All proceeds from this match are donated to the Toys for Tots program. Last year, the event collected enough toys to completely fill three trucks the Marines used to transport the toys. In addition, Mid-Carolina Rifle Club collected over $6300 in cash for the Toys for Tots program. All of these generous donations benefited local families.

This event has increased in popularity since its inception. The match resembles the action pistol matches seen on ESPN and the Outdoors Channel (sanctioned by the United States Practical Shooting Association). Based upon early inquiries, it appears that this will be the largest match to date. Mid-Carolina Rifle Club will cap the number of competitors at 120. The Club expects several National champions to be in attendance as well as a number of nationally ranked junior shooters. The match is a unique Toys for Tots event in that the Marines have an opportunity to compete in the match, which they thoroughly enjoy because they may not be able to participate in other TFT events. Competitors enjoy being with the Marines and having the opportunity to thank them for their hard work and sacrifices.

The match will begin at 9:00 a.m. and will conclude at 4:00 p.m. If you would like more information on the match or practical shooting, you can visit: www.southcarolina-uspsa.org or contact Mid-Carolina Rifle Club at 803.206.5917. The website will have a list of sponsors from the match as well as pictures from the 2009 Toys for Tots Match.

Celebrate Runway Re-Opening at Columbia Metropolitan Airport's Runway Run

On Saturday, November 20th, Columbia Metropolitan Airport will celebrate the re-opening of Runway 11/29 with a 5K Run and a 1-Mile Wing Walk on the runway beginning at 10:00 a.m. Beginning at 10:30 a.m. will be the Kids’ Fun Run for ages K5 – 5th Grade. For registration and contact information, go to www.runwayrun.com. Proceeds from the event will be presented to the American Heart Association.


Reconstruction began on the 8601’ runway in April and includes removing approximately 1.67 miles of existing asphalt and over 400 in-pavement lights and replacing with new 16” thick concrete pavement and new LED in-pavement lights. The W. L. Harper Company is the prime contractor to include several DBE firms as sub-contractors. An estimated 50 jobs were created as a result of this project. Interesting fact: the amount of concrete being placed equals to the amount necessary to build a new 4” thick sidewalk from Columbia all the way to Jacksonville, Florida. The cost of the project is $12,994,419 and is primarily funded through grants from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Runway Run Event Details

South Carolina Hosts Dixie Youth Baseball World Series

The Lexington area prepares to welcome 16 teams from 11 states for the 2010 Dixie Youth Baseball “O” Zone World Series Saturday, July 31 through Thursday, August 5 at the Lexington Sports Complex just off Highway #1 on Ball Park Road in Lexington.

Sixteen teams from 11 different states (240 players and coaches) including Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia will compete for the championship in this annual event. There will also be a host team from Lexington, S.C. The other four teams are runners up from these states. The “O” Zone World Series brings youth ages 11 to 12 to participate in the eight-day tournament.

Baseball fans will enjoy a home-run derby July 30 at 2:00 p.m. at the Lexington Sports Complex. Admission to the derby is $1 per person with all proceeds going to the Dixie Youth Scholarship Fund. Winners of the derby will be awarded their trophies at the opening ceremonies later that evening.

Opening ceremonies will be held Friday, July 30 beginning at 7:00 p.m. at Lexington High School Football Stadium. The event is free to the public. After the parade of teams, fans will enjoy brief remarks from local officials, a special musical performance, and keynote address by Jonny Thompson, head coach of the 2010 Class 4A South Carolina High School Championship White Knoll High School baseball team. Members of the National Championship South Carolina Gamecock baseball team have also been invited as special guests of the event (but are unconfirmed at this time).

World Series baseball games will begin at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 31. The South Carolina and local Lexington County team will take the fields at 8:00 p.m. against Alabama and North Carolina respectively.

General admission costs:

Ages 12 and up - $6
Ages 6-12 - $4
Under 6 - Free

This will be the first Dixie Youth Baseball tournament to be broadcast nationwide through an arrangement made though SCETV. The last three games of the tournament will be available for viewers at home via a live feed to PBS stations around the country.

Merchandise including hats, polo shirts, t-shirts, shorts, baseballs, commemorative cups, and other items will be available for sale. Concession stands will be open throughout the tournament selling hot dogs, nachos, French fries, drinks, candy and other food items.

Windstream will be bringing its Lifetime Tour to the ballpark Saturday, July 31 through Monday, August 2 with the company’s vintage 1953 green pickup, an oversized Plinko game and prizes.

More information, including an online store for merchandise, can be found at www.ozone2010.com.

NOTE: Requests for media credentials should be emailed to Kim Asbill at kim@asbillpr.com before Thursday, July 29.

Columbia Regional Sports Council Receives SportsEvents Magazine's Readers' Choice Award

The Columbia Regional Sports Council is pleased to announce they are the recipients of SportsEvents Magazine’s 2010 Readers Choice Award. SportsEvents Magazine is a nationally distributed magazine read by owners and planners of sports events and sports competitions, including national governing bodies, regional directors, league managers, coaches associations, sports commissions and other sports event owners. It is designed to help planners be more effective, informed and successful with sports events.

The Annual Readers’ Choice Awards included a category for sports event planners to nominate their favorite destinations and venues for hosting sports events. These winners included convention and visitors bureaus, sports commissions, and fields and facilities from across the country that have a proven history of providing both the physical attributes and commitment to hospitality and service that sports event planners demand. The Columbia Regional Sports Council was acknowledged for its excellence within the "Places to Watch" category, and Columbia was the only destination in South Carolina to receive the award this year..

“When we put the call out to readers to nominate sports planners and sports-friendly destinations and venues for SportsEvents Magazine’s Annual Readers’ Choice Awards, we asked them to recommend only the best,” said J. Talty O’Connor, publisher of SportsEvents Magazine. “We believe our select group of planners, destination marketing organizations, and fields and facilities. The Columbia Regional Sports Council not only meets but exceeds the high demands of producing successful sports events today.”

Scott Powers, executive director of the Columbia Regional Sports Council said, “We would like to thank the readers of SportsEvents Magazine for this distinguished recognition. We work diligently to bring events to the Columbia metro area and we are honored to be acknowledged by our peers.”

About the Columbia Regional Sports Council:
The Columbia Regional Sports Council’s mission is to strengthen the area’s economy by marketing and selling Columbia as a premier destination for sporting events and partnering with local sports organizations to grow and develop existing events. For more information, visit columbiasportscouncil.com.

South Carolina vs. SC State | Famously Hot Facebook Giveaway

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