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Photo by Kim North Children bound down Water Street on Saturday morning, participating in the Tiny Tot Trot, presented by Ziegenfelder.

WHEELING – A little bit of rain did not dampen the spirits of the children participating in Saturday’s Tiny Tot Trot presented by Ziegenfelder.

The Tot Trot was one of many events Saturday held during the Ogden Newspapers Wellness Weekend presented by WVU Medicine.

Families and friends gathered around the 100-yard area on Water Street as children ages 5 and younger lined up to run in the non-competitive race. The kids were split into two groups, with children ages 4 and 5 running first, followed by children ages 3 and under.

Parents and siblings cheered on the runners as they dashed to the finish line, where each participant was presented with a finish award ribbon.

Many of the participants this year were first-timers due to the event being postponed the last couple of years due to COVID-19.

Neva Hornbeck of Lancaster, Ohio said her grandchildren, 5-year-old Ruth and 2-year-old twins Mark and Seth, participated in the Tot Trot, while her oldest two grandkids, Levi, 10, and Anna, 8, ran in the Ogden Fun Run presented by Ziegenfelder. She said she was keeping an eye on the kids while their father ran in the Ogden Newspapers Half Marathon Classic.

“It’s a family affair. … I think it’s great. What a great way to get them (the kids) interested in running,” she said.

Nicole Gallagher of Powhatan Point said it was her 3-year-old son Landon Swegard’s first time running in the trot, although in the past he has ridden along in a stroller while she runs in the 5K race.

“It’s a nice event and a good thing for the community. It’s a great way to get together and get some exercise,” she said.

Tiffany Misenhelder’s daughters, 3-year-old Halle and 2-year-old Harper, were having a great time and excited about their first run in the event.

“It’s raining, but it’s still nice,” she said. “The kids are having fun.”

Emily Nardo of Bluffton, Ohio, said her son, 2-year-old Joseph, had a blast in the trot.

“He’s been telling everyone all day that he has to get ready for the race,” she said.

Kayla Estes of Columbus, Ohio, said it was the first time her 2-year-old daughter Pearl participated and the third time for 5-year-old daughter Eleanore. She said Pearl was so excited after finishing the race, she exclaimed that she wanted to do it again. Eleanore credited her new shoes for helping her run fast.

Misty Kennedy of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, said her 4-year-old daughter Faith was most excited to receive her ribbon after finishing the run.

Additionally, participants were given a shirt and a goody bag containing toys, coupons and tickets to the Pittsburgh Zoo.

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