Cho and Marza finish NYC Marathon in 4:15:07 and 3:50:39 for Alzheimer's charity
The Eyewitness News anchors completed their runs in Central Park to honor former colleague Bill Ritter, who was diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's this summer.
By Karan Cabrera ·
Two Eyewitness News anchors crossed the finish line of the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon on Sunday, completing the course in honor of a former colleague.
Mike Marza finished the race with a time of 3:50:39, marking his second marathon. Liz Cho, who was running her first, completed the event in 4:15:07. The pair had been training for the race since announcing their participation in September, aiming to raise funds for the Alzheimer's Association.
Their efforts were directed at supporting Bill Ritter, a friend and former anchor who stepped away from the desk in June 2026 following a diagnosis of early-stage Alzheimer's disease. Since his announcement, Ritter has focused on reporting about the condition through his "Living with Alzheimer's" series while managing the disease himself.
Cho and Marza reunited with Ritter at the finish line in Central Park, an emotional moment for the three colleagues. Cho described the race as spectacular to Ritter, noting the joy she observed along the course. She explained that seeing fellow anchors Kemberly, Pedro, and Dani kept her moving forward when her energy dipped.
Cho also cited a personal milestone at mile eight, where she saw her mother and daughter Lulu. "I saw my mom and Lulu (Liz's daughter) at mile eight and it was just the most spectacular experience," she said. Marza told Ritter it was an incredible day for all of them and for the Alzheimer's Association. He praised Ritter's bravery in sharing his diagnosis publicly.
"It was so courageous and brave when you announced that you (Bill) were battling Alzheimer's," Marza said. "You give so much to so many people, including me. If I could give an ounce of grit that you showcase..that's what I'm trying to do." Ritter responded by telling Marza that he had done it by bringing the disease into the public eye.
Cho managed to finish strongly despite battling an injury in the weeks leading up to the event. The anchors completed their training and fundraising goals, ending their run in the park with their former colleague.
Source: ABC7 New York
