2026 Wellness Weekend Edition in Preparation by Organizers
The annual Ogden Newspapers Wellness Weekend, presented by WVU Medicine, is gearing up for an exciting event slated for Memorial Day Weekend, May 23-24, 2026. Organizers are busy preparing for a range of activities that traditionally attract thousands of participants to downtown Wheeling.
Registration Now Open
Registration for all events of the Wellness Weekend is currently open. Interested individuals can sign up and find training tips from WVU Medicine experts at El-Balad’s official website.
Weekend Overview
This year marks the 48th edition of the Ogden Newspapers Half Marathon Classic. The race includes a challenging 13.1-mile course through several neighborhoods in Wheeling, featuring a series of hills that test the endurance of participants. Scheduled events are as follows:
- Half Marathon Run: Starts at 7:15 a.m. on May 23.
- Half Marathon Walk: Begins at 7:20 a.m.
- 5K Run: Kicks off at 7:25 a.m.
- 5K Walk: Starts at 7:30 a.m.
- Fun Run for Kids: Scheduled for 8:15 a.m.
- Tiny Tot Trot: Takes place at 10:30 a.m.
- Rovers on the River (for dogs): Begins at 11:15 a.m.
Special Events for All Ages
Wheeling’s Wellness Weekend is family-oriented, featuring activities suitable for everyone. Additionally, pets can join in the fun during the Rovers on the River event, which includes a scenic walk along the Heritage Trail.
Sunday Activities
The festivities continue on May 24 with the Tough As Nails Urban Challenge, starting at noon. This event presents urban warriors with various physical challenges, promising an engaging experience.
- Tough As Nails Urban Challenge: Noon start on May 24.
- Wheeling Heritage Trail Bike Tour: Offers rides of 100 km, 50 km, and 15 km, starting at different times on Sunday.
The cycling events commence with the 100 km ride at 7:30 a.m., followed by the 50 km ride at 8:30 a.m. and the 15 km ride at 9:00 a.m.
Ultra Urban Challenge
Competitors are encouraged to participate in all three major events throughout the weekend by entering the Ultra Urban Challenge. Finishers will receive a custom t-shirt as a reward for their efforts.
Community Celebration
After each day’s events, participants can join in a community celebration at the race site. A bar will open at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. on Sunday, featuring a DJ on Saturday and live music on Sunday.
Jim Spanner, general manager of the Intelligencer and Wheeling News-Register, highlighted the Wellness Weekend as an excellent opportunity for families in the Ohio Valley. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to join the fun and celebrate the kickoff of summer.
