Runday - It's the people. It is vivid emotions.

Sometimes we wonder what makes Runday so special

If you have ever wondered what sets Runday apart from any other event, it comes down to one simple thing: the people.

The bright smiles, warm greetings, supportive cheers, and sense of shared purpose are all possible because of individuals who believe in something bigger than themselves. Runday thrives thanks to those who show up week after week — not for rewards or recognition, but because they care.

One of these people is Romko Zadorozhnyi. An outdoor enthusiast, a store manager, and a true community builder, Romko has helped make Runday in Ternopil feel like home for so many.

The Journey to Runday

Roman’s path to running wasn’t planned. Before discovering Runday, he spent his time exploring mountains, rivers, and caves. Hiking, cycling, and speleology were his passions — adventures that shaped his love of the outdoors.

But everything changed when running arrived in Ternopil. As he recalls, the first races began right when he became curious about how running could bring people together. He was especially impressed by the organisers — Ruslan Ruzhytskyi and Yura Mishchuk — who dared to launch something completely new in a city not known for its sporting zeal.

“It was addictive,” he says. Seeing people do something purely out of goodwill was inspiring. Soon, he realised how natural it was to attract people to running — and he couldn’t resist joining.

A Volunteer from the Very Start

Roman started volunteering around October 2016. At first, he didn’t bother tracking every result or logging every run. He just helped in his own way—cheering, organising, and making sure everyone felt welcome.

Beyond Runday, he also supported the Ternopil Half Marathon, showing the same enthusiasm for growing active communities.

Of course, not everything went smoothly. He still laughs remembering the day the phone lost all the results, forcing him to piece together finish times from memory. Luckily, there were fewer than ten participants then—proof that even small beginnings matter.

The Joy of Running

Although Roman is often away for work on Saturdays, he finds joy in every photo report and every story shared by the people who run. He knows that every new face at the start line is proof that the contagious example of volunteering and showing up works.

He runs too — but without pressure. For him, the goal isn’t about winning. It’s about feeling alive. Still, he hopes that someday he’ll cross the finish line in under 20 minutes.

What Running Feels Like

If you meet Romko on the course, you’ll likely find him chatting. For him, running is social. But when he runs alone, his mind drifts somewhere between reality and dreams.

“It’s easier to dream while running than lying on the couch,” he smiles.

Unlike many athletes, Romko doesn’t have a single idol. He’s inspired by everyone he runs beside—regardless of age or speed. In his eyes, each runner is remarkable.

The Magic of Ternopil

Ask Romko about the Runday route by the lake and he’ll describe it simply:

“Ternopil is a fairy tale in which we live.”

No fanfare, no pretence—just a beautiful place where good things happen.

What Runday Means

For Romko, Runday is a spark. It’s the reason new events begin, friendships form, and communities grow stronger. It’s all about the people and the feeling that anything is possible when you start together.

If you ever find yourself in Ternopil, you’ll understand why so many runners return every week. And you might even meet Romko—smiling, welcoming, and ready to remind you why running matters.