By Leah Cowdell, Taylorsville City

At this year’s Taylorsville Dayzz 5K, 81-year-old John Atramanczyk walked the course with a nearly 30-pound rucksack on his back and an American flag in hand, serving as a moving reminder of dedication and purpose.

“I started running back in my 30s, but I got into rucking when I was 71,” Atramanczyk said. “It keeps me moving and gives me a reason to show up.”

Atramanczyk was born in Idaho Falls, Idaho, and moved to Taylorsville in the 1970s, where he still lives with his wife. A father of five and grandfather of 11, he’s a veteran of both the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm and retired from the Utah National Guard in 2004. Over the years, he also worked for the FBI and in social services for Salt Lake County and the State of Utah.

Rucking, which involves walking with a weighted backpack, has military roots but has become popular among civilians looking for a low-impact alternative to running. Atramanczyk is part of Team Red, White & Blue, a group that brings together veterans, active-duty military and civilians for regular rucks.

“I carry the flag and the weight to honor our veterans,” he said. “It’s not about being fast; it’s about finishing with purpose.”

For Atramanczyk, staying active isn’t just about races, it’s about being there for the moments that matter. “My granddaughter told me, ‘Grandpa, I’ll probably get married when I’m about 20, and I want you to be there,’” he said. “I told her, ‘I’ll keep working out, and maybe I’ll make it.’”

With Ruck 801, a club of ruck enthusiasts in the greater Salt Lake City area, Atramanczyk joins in local events that blend fitness with community. “John’s a great part of our group,” said Matt Solum, who leads Ruck 801. “People see him and think, ‘I want to be able to do that at 81.’ He’s consistent. He shows up. He sets an example.”

“It really comes down to the community aspect of it,” Solum added. “It’s just an awesome group of like-minded people.”

As the community celebrated Taylorsville Dayzz 2025, Atramanczyk’s presence reflected the kind of strength that doesn’t fade with time. Taylorsville event organizers plan to add an official ruck category for runners of next year’s race.