The Ogden Newspapers Wellness Weekend presented by WVU Medicine in Wheeling saw participants taking the next step towards their fitness goals. Many individuals used the event as a stepping stone to bigger races in the future.
Michael Hawk, a participant in the 5K Run/Walk, shared his goal of eventually participating in the Ogden Newspapers Half Marathon Classic. Despite having run longer races in the past, Hawk acknowledged the need for more training to build up his endurance.
For Clarissa Dolenc of Glen Dale, completing her first 5K was a bucket list item. With the support of veteran runner Jessie Herrnberger, Dolenc pushed herself to finish the race, despite admitting her dislike for running.
Herrnberger, who had previously tackled the Tough as Nails Urban Challenge and a recent half marathon, chose to run the 5K to support her friend in achieving her goal.
The electric atmosphere of the Wellness Weekend, filled with happy participants and a sense of camaraderie, motivated both Dolenc and Herrnberger to push themselves further in their fitness journey.
As participants like Hawk, Dolenc, and Herrnberger continue to challenge themselves and set new goals, the Ogden Newspapers Wellness Weekend serves as a platform for individuals to take the next step towards achieving their fitness aspirations.