In the upcoming months/year I will be running a few races.  They will vary in distance but I will have the same goal in all of them...FINISH! 

This weekend, April 21st will be a trail half marathon in Colorado Springs, CO called the Big Mountain Trail Race.  I'm looking forward to this race because of the location (very scenic) and the climb (over 7 miles of climbing). 

On June 3rd, I will be heading to Steamboat Springs for the Steamboat Marathon.

On August 18th at 4 AM, I will be starting what will be the culmination of a lot of climbing and running throughout the spring/summer...the Leadville Trail 100.  This is a 100 mile trail run in Leadville, CO.  I will surely be tested over the course of 30 hours (the cut off for the race is 30 hours).  I paced my buddy, Pete, in this race last year and his effort definitely inspired me to attempt it this year.

The last race I would like to run would be the 2013 Boston Marathon.  This one is obviously a special race and would mean the most for me due to the fact that it's so historic.  It would also be special because all my friends and family could attend this race and I can enjoy some post race beers will them on Boylston St. 

I want to raise money and awareness for a couple different causes. 

First, I would like to raise money for BCAN (Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network).  My father-in-law, Wally, was diagnosed and overcame bladder cancer back in 2006.  Not everyone gets along with their in-laws but I can truthfully say that I enjoy hanging out with Wally.  He is a great guy and great father-in-law and I'd be honored to raise money to support BCAN.  This fundraiser will be called "Wally's World".

Second, I would like to raise money for the National Spinal Cord Injury Association...more specifically, the Greater Boston Chapter.  My father, Rick, was in a car accident when he was younger and broke his neck.  After he awoke from his 65 day coma, he was told he would never walk or have any movement below his neck.  Despite what the doctors told him, he taught himself how to use a fork and knife again.  He taught himself how to walk again.  And, eventually, taught himself how to run again.  He is such an inspiration and role model for me and I'd be honored to raise money for the National Spinal Cord Injury Association.  This fundraiser will be called "THE Rick Rizzo".  My fundraiser page for "THE Rick Rizzo" will be up in the coming weeks. 

Thank you very much for checking out my page!  I really appreciate the support!