Ohio Valley residents have demanding standards when it comes to traditions. We demand not just longevity but also excellence in our traditions, ranging from high school football rivalries to ethnic food celebrations.

One tradition that met the dual test many years ago is the Ogden Newspapers 20K Classic race, being run (and walked) today in Wheeling. The event has become one looked forward to by hundreds of local competitors — and those from foreign countries — and by thousands of spectators. It offers a variety of walking and running events for competitors of all ages and athletic abilities. It provides spectators with an opportunity to cheer on their favorite athletes and simply to marvel at the physical prowess of all who compete.

This year the Classic marks its 30th anniversary, a pinnacle reached only by a very select few special events of its type.

Competitors have been a key reason why the Classic has become a tradition. Some of the world’s top runners have competed here — but it has been local and regional athletes who have been the heart of the 20K. Many see the Classic as a must-do event every year, and more than a dozen “Ironmen” have been involved in each and every one of the race’s 30 years.

But the event’s success is due primarily to dedicated volunteers who work throughout the year — but particularly hard during race week — to make the Classic a success. This year’s race director, Howard Corcoran, and co-directors Eric Anderson, Heidi Clark and Robert Scatterday, deserve an enormous amount of credit. They are supported by dozens of other volunteers who have earned the thanks of the community for their work.

But, as the volunteers will be the first to admit, they can’t do it without help. Down through the years, the Classic has been possible only because of steadfast, generous sponsors providing financial and material support. We at the Ogden Newspapers are the event’s primary sponsor, and are pleased to be able to support what we consider to be one of the valley’s most important, enjoyable special events. Other major sponsors this year include the City of Wheeling, Ohio County Commissioners, United Bank, Mason Rehab Center, Wheeling Island Racetrack and Gaming Center, and Wheeling Hospital.

What sets the Ogden Newspapers 20K Classic off from many special events is that it showcases athletes capable of great feats of endurance. Spectators often marvel at the ability of the athletes to “go the distance.”

That, in a way, is what has made the Classic a tradition — the dedication of so many volunteers and sponsors in continuing, year after year, to make the event a success. We salute them, then, on the Classic’s 30th anniversary — for going the distance.