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Ogden race keeps calling to resident

WHEELING — Some people see the Ogden Newspapers Half Marathon Classic as a challenge to overcome year after year, pushing themselves to go harder every time they run or walk the course. Others aren’t so worried about making record time in the race, greeting the Ogden like an old friend they look forward to seeing every year.

Pat Jobb is a Martins Ferry resident and is no stranger to the Ogden race. He has been participating in the race since 1977, marking his 40th year with the 2017 race. Back when he started competing, the race wasn’t nearly as big as it is now, but Jobb said he still enjoyed competing. He relished the challenge that came with racing up and down the hills of the course, seeing what exactly he was capable of. Over time, Jobb began to slow his pace down a little, taking part in the walking portion of the race after it was introduced.

“It’s like the Super Bowl of road racing,” Jobb said. “It’s just really exciting.”

Jobb said that after running the race for so many years, he knows exactly how he has to pace himself in order to complete the whole course. He said that as always, one of the biggest challenges is 29th Street hill, which can have an effect on even the toughest runners breath as they labor up the steep climb. Jobb pointed out that even though the race continues for quite a span after 29th Street, conquering that hill feels like a victory all on its own.

Jobb said he begins his training for the race around February and March, walking to help build stamina. Aside from walking the Ogden, he is no stranger to physical activity, assisting with Special Olympics in Belmont County. He just walks for fun now, not trying to beat any particular time. He said that even through the weather was pretty rainy and dreary, he wouldn’t let it dampen his spirits. He’s run the race in worse conditions, and said he probably will continue to compete.

“I made it in 3:24 last year, and that was pretty good,” Jobb said. “If I can do close to that again, that would be just fine.”

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