My Biggest Fan: Amanda Ricciardi

Amanda’s dad Richard is her official videographer and her biggest fan.

Meet Amanda Ricciardi and her father, Richard.

This father and daughter from Wallingford, Conn., have always been tight—but obstacle racing transformed them into a tenacious team. Three years ago, 24-year-old Amanda Ricciardi ran her very first race, a Spartan 3-miler. Now the radiographer ranks 17th in the world and second in her age group in the Spartan series. She’s also completed several marathons, ultramarathons and triathlons since she started running.

What’s the secret to Amanda’s newfound racing talent? Her cameraman dad. During grueling ultramarathons, Richard stands on mountain paths screaming his daughter’s name. At obstacle events, he runs through rugged terrain to take shots of her in action.

Related: My Biggest Fan- Debbie LaFond

“He’s never without a camera—that’s his thing,” Amanda says. But his support goes beyond the lens. Once when she got lost during a 50K race, her dad ran 5 miles toward where she should have been running, guided her to the correct trail and then ran with her to the aid station.

Amanda’s next feat will be a full Ironman in July, where her father will be documenting and cheering her on for all 140.6 miles. This team goes the distance!

Related: Biggest Fan- Alexa Efraimson

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