FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
To: News Media, Bamberg County Residents
From: The Office of Public Information
Date: January 26, 2026
Re: Despite Inclement Weather, Runners and Walkers Power Through 2026 Scandinavian Relay Race
Bamberg, South Carolina (January 2026) — Determination and teamwork took center stage this past Saturday as runners and walkers from across the region gathered for the annual Scandinavian Relay Race, successfully completing the 40-mile relay despite looming weather concerns. The race route carried teams through the towns of Norway, Denmark, Sweden, and Finland, with the total distance divided into eight legs, each assigned to an individual team member. Participants embraced the challenge, demonstrating grit and camaraderie as they navigated the course under gray skies and uncertain forecasts.
Race Director Laura Broussard credited the event’s success to the unwavering commitment of the teams who chose to participate despite predictions of rain and ice. “We are incredibly grateful to every team that showed up and supported the Scandinavian Relay Race, even with the weather working against us,” Broussard said. “To keep everyone safe, we made the decision to start the race 30 minutes early so participants could return home before conditions worsened.” Broussard also noted the new partnership with Dam to Dam Relay, introduced this year, which helped establish the Steadfast Relay initiative. Through this collaboration, proceeds from the Scandinavian Relay Race will directly benefit communities across South Carolina. “This partnership allows the impact of the Scandinavian Relay Race to extend beyond race day and continue serving communities right here at home,” Broussard added.
Bamberg County Councilwoman Michelle Martin expressed her appreciation for both the participants and the essential workers who helped ensure the event ran safely. “I want to send a huge thank-you to all of the runners and walkers who participated in the Scandinavian Relay Race, and to our essential workers—especially our police officers and firefighters—who were out on Bamberg County roadways keeping everyone safe,” Martin said.
Bamberg County Administrator Joey Preston also praised the event and its organizers, noting the county’s continued support. “We’re proud to support an event that brings people together and showcases the strength of teamwork and community,” Preston said. “I look forward to supporting the Scandinavian Relay Race again in 2027—and hopefully with much better weather.”
Despite challenging conditions, the 2026 Scandinavian Relay Race once again proved that dedication, planning, and community spirit can carry participants across the finish line—rain, cold, and all.
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For more information on this news release, email info@bambergcounty.sc.gov.