WHEREAS, Zoe Romano, a Richmond resident passionate about running, became the first person to run the Tour de France, raising more than $167,000 for World Pediatric Project; and WHEREAS, Zoe Romano developed a love of running while an undergraduate student at the University of Richmond; she now tutors Spanish in the Richmond area and works as a freelance writer; and WHEREAS, in 2011, Zoe Romano ran 2,800 miles across the United States, becoming the first woman to complete such a run without a support vehicle; she raised more than $15,000 for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America in the process; and WHEREAS, in 2013, Zoe Romano decided on a new challenge—running the 2,000-mile Tour de France—while raising money for World Pediatric Project, which provides medical care to children in Central America and the Caribbean; and WHEREAS, a daunting endeavor, Zoe Romano averaged 30 miles a day for an astonishing 10 and one-half weeks over a variety of terrains—completing the final 90-mile stretch in 24 hours; and WHEREAS, Zoe Romano faced numerous challenges along the way, including injury, heat, steep mountains, and a wild boar, but persevered with amazing athletic ability and an indomitable spirit; and WHEREAS, Zoe Romano surpassed her fundraising goal of $150,000, raising more than $167,000 for World Pediatric Project while raising awareness of the nonprofit organization and its mission; and WHEREAS, a remarkable woman, Zoe Romano demonstrated great fortitude and resilience throughout her Tour de France run; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED by the Senate, the House of Delegates concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Zoe Romano on successfully running the Tour de France and raising more than $167,000 for World Pediatric Project; and, be it RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Zoe Romano as an expression of the General Assembly's congratulations and admiration for her tenacity, endurance, and commitment to helping others. |