WHEELING — Running 12 miles early on a Saturday morning may not seem like the ideal way to kick off your Memorial Day weekend, but to me the Ogden Newspapers 20K Classic has become both a personal and a family tradition that I wouldn’t miss.

Running the race — scheduled this year for Saturday, May 27 — has always been one of the highlights of my year. To me, it’s the culmination of dedication to the sport of running, the commitment to train properly for the long uphill battle on 29th Street and the invigorating feeling of crossing the finish line in a reasonable time and again accomplishing the momentous task.

For as long as I can remember, my father and four older brothers have participated in the race in a friendly, competitive manner. My father, John P. Romanek, has competed in nearly every race since its inception, and he inspires me to run each day. From track meets to marathons, there is always someone in my family lacing up and ready to run.

My sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews also have caught the running fever, and they will take to the streets Friday evening, May 26, in the Ogden Fun Run and Tiny Tot Trot.

My enthusiasm for the 20K really began when I was a student at Wheeling Park High School. I was a member of both the cross-country and track teams, and I decided to replace track with the 20K Classic my junior and senior years. I began my training in January 2000, and by May of that year I was ready for my first 12-mile run.

In 2001, I finished in the top spot for my age group, and since that time I’ve set aside the last weekend in May for the race. This year will be my sixth year competing.

Taking part in the Ogden 20K Classic always leaves me with a true sense of accomplishment. Running past spectators as they cheer me on, making it to the top of 29th Street hill and the glorious feeling of making my way down 14th Street after 12 grueling miles and approaching the finish line fills me with a sense of pride.

Step-by-step, mile-by-mile, I run because it’s an outlet for the daily stress we all face. It’s a chance to check in with myself and reflect on my life at my own pace. It’s also the perfect way to stay in shape. I run out of sincere love for the sport. It’s definitely not easy, but like all things important in life, nothing good comes easy.

For 30 years, this sporting event has been a big part of the city of Wheeling and its local community of runners. I want to wish all the runners and walkers in next Saturday’s event good luck. Remember, anyone who crosses the finish line is a winner.