Details Released On 13th Annual Step Up for Colleen 5K In Andover

ANDOVER, MA — The 13th Annual Step Up for Colleen 5K will be held May 3 in Andover's Central Park.

The walk/run is held in memory of teacher Colleen Ritzer.

Todd Angilly, who sings at each Boston Bruins home game, will sing the national anthem from the park’s gazebo during the 8:45 a.m. opening ceremony. The 5K walk/run begins at 9 a.m.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Colleen E. Ritzer Memorial Fund, which fosters a society of compassion with kindness as a motivating influence in all its endeavors, according to a statement from organizers.

"Renowned for her kindness, zeal for life, teaching, and love of family, the organization emulates Colleen’s compassion through scholarships, grants and other programs with kindness and education at their core," the statement reads.

The Step Up for Colleen draws walkers and runners of all ages each year. Most wear pink, which was Ritzer’s favorite color.

“Every May, seeing our community come together in Colleen’s honor is both humbling and uplifting,” the Ritzer family said in a statement. “The energy, love, and shared commitment to kindness remind us that Colleen’s spirit continues to impact our community in so many powerful ways. We are deeply grateful to every participant, volunteer, and supporter who keeps her legacy alive by choosing compassion and positivity each day.”

This year’s event emcees will be Magic 106.7 radio personalities Sue Tabb and Kendra Petrone. The post-race festivities will feature music, refreshments, a beer garden, Boston sports mascots, a balloon artist, face-painting, a magician, friendship bracelet making, and much more.

An awards ceremony will be held at 10:30 a.m.

Online registration is available at colleenritzer.org. The first 3,000 people to register are guaranteed an official 2026 race shirt, and everyone on each team of 10 or more people will receive a special gift. Virtual registration is available to those who cannot attend in person. Corporate sponsorships are also available.

Since its inception in 2014, $677,000 in scholarships have been awarded to 128 future teachers and leaders, some of whom have already begun their teaching careers and are pursuing master’s degrees, according to the statement.