Eyewitness News Anchors to Run NYC Marathon for Charity
Liz Cho and Mike Marza are racing this Sunday to support the Alzheimer’s Association in honor of their colleague.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Running
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Eyewitness News anchors Liz Cho and Mike Marza are set to run the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon this Sunday, November 1, 2026. The duo is racing in the 26.2-mile event to raise funds for the Alzheimer's Association in honor of their colleague, Bill Ritter.
Why it matters
The team's participation highlights community-led advocacy for Alzheimer's awareness following Bill Ritter's diagnosis and departure from the WABC anchor desk. Their efforts underscore how personal connection drives large-scale charitable engagement in the lead-up to the marathon.
Approximately 60,000 runners are expected to tackle the 26.2-mile course across the five boroughs. The exact fundraising total remains unknown as final donations are processed.
The players
Liz Cho
Eyewitness News anchor running her first full 26.2-mile marathon.
Mike Marza
Eyewitness News anchor participating in his second New York City Marathon.
Bill Ritter
Former WABC anchor who stepped away from the desk following an Alzheimer's disease diagnosis.
Alzheimer's Association
Nonprofit organization dedicated to Alzheimer's care, support, and research.
The details
Runners begin the race on the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge before navigating the city's five boroughs. The event requires significant cardiovascular preparation, involving early morning training sessions to build endurance for the full marathon distance. Liz Cho is tackling her first full marathon, while Mike Marza competes in his second New York City race.
Timeline
Friday, October 30, 2026: Cho and Marza appeared on Good Morning America.
Sunday, November 1, 2026: The 2026 TCS New York City Marathon takes place.
7:00 a.m., November 1, 2026: Pre-race coverage begins on Channel 7.
8:00 a.m., November 1, 2026: Live marathon coverage begins on Channel 7 and ESPN2.
Health Landscape
The New York City Marathon frequently serves as a platform for public figures to drive philanthropic support for major health organizations. This effort follows a established pattern of using large-scale athletic events to sustain attention for the Alzheimer's Association.
Long-distance running requires consistent, progressive training to manage the physical toll on the heart and joints. If you are interested in starting an endurance routine, it is worth discussing a safe, individualized plan with your primary care physician.
The takeaway
Maintaining physical endurance through long-distance running can be a powerful way to support personal wellness while championing important health causes. Readers inspired to support the Alzheimer's Association can find local volunteer and donation opportunities through the organization's official website.
Further reading
For more on local training and event coverage, visit Running.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ABC7 New York.
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Would you participate in a long-distance athletic event to support a charitable cause?
