Decked out in a full Captain America costume, 66-year-old Charles Bevan slid over the final obstacle at the second annual JCB Mud Run and was met by a supporter who offered him an ice cold can of Corona.
Bevan grabbed the brew, took a sip and crossed the finish line with a broad smile across his face.
“It was a great race,” said Bevan, who is retired from JCB and lives in England. “And it was nice to get some support from my team there at the end.”
He was one of thousands braving the muck Saturday at JCB North American Headquarters in Pooler.
View Spotted® photos from the 2013 JCB Mud Run: Gallery 1 and Gallery 2
JCB, the world’s largest heavy equipment manufacturer, made use of its own products to set up the 4.3-mile course that included more than 20 obstacles — with everything from lake crossings to challenging hills that tested runners of all ages.
The atmosphere was festive as teams of two and six runners finished the race in waves — getting their pictures snapped before joining an after-party that included live music, food and fellowship.
The event is a charity fundraiser and a way for JCB to give back to the community.
All proceeds benefited the Lady Bramford Center. Located in West Savannah, the center provides education and support to children from 6 weeks to 5 years of age.
Priority admission is offered to kids from homeless and low-income families, as well as for children with physical and mental challenges.
The final tally of participants wasn’t available Saturday, but Meg Albertson, JCB’s dealer marketing manager, said 598 teams signed up for the race.
She estimated there were about 2,000 runners — roughly the same amount that participated last year, when more than $100,000 was raised for the Lady Bramford Center.
The post-race party was starting to roll around noon, with runners listening to music while some enjoyed a beer or two from a booth sponsored by Coastal Empire Beer Co.
Adrian Magana and his buddy finished third in the costume contest, with Magana dressed up as an old-time circus strong man, and his friend decked out in a lion outfit.
“This is the first time I’ve run in this race,” said Magana, a staff sergeant at Hunter Army Airfield. “It’s a great event, with great people, and it helps a great cause. You can’t beat that.”