Rich Zilinsky, a native of Chicago, currently resides in Oak Lawn, IL (a south suburb of Chicago). He is the Director of Finance at a flooring supply company in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago. He spends as much time as he can with his incredible wife Nikki and their 6-month old son Jackson. He also enjoys spending time with his family and friends, traveling, bike riding, enjoying the outdoors, and relaxing.

As a very close friend of Dave Browne, Rich was affected very much by his sudden death. He happened to be one of the friends that were with Dave the weekend that he died. Dave’s life touched him and so many other friends that have had the privilege to meet him during his short-lived life.

After participating every year in the final day of the ride, Rich decided (with much support from Andy) that it was time to give the full ride a shot. He is very excited to join the group for the entire ride and although he is a casual rider, his determination, support, and heart will help push him until the end. Rich has learned from past rides that there are two ways to describe the routes taken by the riders; Andy’s way... and then reality. If Andy says 60 miles, it’s really 75 miles. If Andy says rolling hills, it’s really 45 degree inclines. (Sorry Andy, I couldn’t resist taking a jab at you.)

The group that makes up Team242 is unlike any other that you will ever meet. Friendship, camaraderie, laughter, and support are just a few of the traits that make them what they are... a "family" dedicated to the legacy of DBrowne and the American Heart Association.