New York City – This Sunday, two familiar faces from WABC’s Eyewitness News will line up among roughly 60,000 runners at the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon. Liz Cho, making her debut in a full marathon, and veteran runner Mike Marza are lacing up their shoes not just for personal achievement but to honor longtime colleague Bill Ritter, who recently announced his diagnosis with Alzheimer’s disease and his retirement from the anchor desk.
Running for a cause
Both anchors chose the marathon as a platform to support the Alzheimer’s Association, a nonprofit dedicated to research, care, and advocacy for those affected by the disease. “It is our honor to be running in his honor this weekend,” Cho said. “Bill has meant so much to us, our newsroom, and the entire city. We are proud to raise awareness and funds for the Alzheimer’s Association.”
Marza, now on his second New York City Marathon, echoed the sentiment, noting that the race’s energy fuels his commitment. “The energy from New York is incredible,” he said, describing the iconic start on the Verrazzano‑Narrows Bridge with Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York” echoing over the crowd.
Balancing family, work, and training
Training for a 26.2‑mile race while maintaining demanding careers and parenting responsibilities has been a challenge for both. Cho and Marza emphasized that the charitable purpose of their run keeps them motivated during early‑morning miles and long training runs. “Keeping the cause in mind makes every step worthwhile,” Marza said.
Cho, who first tasted marathon excitement during a “Good Morning America” relay last year, described that brief experience as “one of the most exhilarating days of my life,” prompting her to pursue the full distance. “I caught the marathon bug and kept training with the hopes of running for the marathon,” she recalled.
Advice for first‑time marathoners
When asked what advice he would give to newcomers like Cho, Marza kept it simple: “Keep going. One foot in front of the other. Run the mile you’re in.” The straightforward counsel reflects the perseverance required to finish a race that tests both physical stamina and mental resolve.
Community impact
The marathon, a hallmark of New York’s cultural calendar, draws millions of spectators along its five‑borough route. For Cho and Marza, crossing the finish line will symbolize more than personal triumph; it will serve as a tribute to a colleague whose presence has shaped their newsroom and the broader community. Their participation underscores how local media personalities can mobilize public support for vital health causes.
Donations collected through the runners’ fundraising pages will go directly to the Alzheimer’s Association, supporting research initiatives and caregiver resources. Organizers expect the charitable component of the marathon to continue growing, reflecting a broader trend of athletes using high‑visibility events to champion important social and health issues.
Looking ahead
As the marathon approaches, the city prepares for road closures and increased transit demand, with officials urging residents to plan alternate routes. The event also highlights the resilience of New Yorkers, who gather each year to celebrate endurance, community spirit, and the shared goal of making a positive impact.
Whether cheering from the sidelines or watching the race on television, New Yorkers can take pride in seeing local heroes like Cho and Marza turn personal challenges into opportunities to support families affected by Alzheimer’s disease.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
