Team Chai’s marathon efforts raise over £39,000 at the TCS London Marathon!

Ten dedicated runners made up Team Chai this year as they took to the streets to raise vital funds for Chai as part of the TCS London Marathon. So far, they have raised over £39,000!

Sara Goldstein and her boyfriend Ben Mesrie took on the iconic route together for Chai and the pair have so far raised a phenomenal £12,400. Ben completed the marathon in 4hours 17 minutes and Sara wasn’t too far behind with a time of 4hours and 32 minutes. After the marathon, Ben said: “Absolutely loved it! Thank you so much for giving us the opportunity to do it for Chai.”

Ariel Shapiro who flew in from Israel to take part explained: “Having seen several family members battle cancer, it’s an honour to run for Chai. Knowing that the money raised will improve the emotional welfare of cancer patients, their families and friends makes the many hours of training and running the London Marathon worthwhile.” Ariel completed the marathon in 5hours 23 minutes and raised £1,300. 

Justin Saunders finished the London Marathon in a time of 6hours 3 minutes and has raised £4,800 to date. He explains: “it was a hugely emotional and inspiring day, where the incredible work of the people at Chai  meant more than ever. What got me round was the knowledge that Chai supports people like my brother and nieces without any limits and with the love and warmth they need. Achy, sore and could cry at any moment but I feel so incredibly proud to have run in memory of my sister in law for such a wonderful charity.”

Alison Hillier who has so far raised £2,800 finished the marathon 5hours 8 minutes and said: “I’m honoured to run the London Marathon for Chai in memory of a special friend and to raise funds to continue the vital work they do supporting her dear family.”

Danny Ogen who also took on the marathon for Chai had a time of 4hours 8 minutes. Danny has raised £1,360 and said: “I’m happy and grateful to be able to complete such a challenge and also doing it in memory of my Dad and for a great charity. the atmosphere was electric, people were standing along the whole route cheering, calling out names of runners (including mine) pushing the runners forward and supporting us. Was it hard yes!!!! Was it worth it absolutely!!! I recommend London Marathon to anyone. It’s a once in a lifetime experience.”

The rest of Team Chai was made up by: Rabbi Menachem Korer, Joe Lister, Sam Simon, Dylan Stephens.

Louise Hager, Chai’s Chairman, said: “I’d like to congratulate and thank each runner for their unwavering dedication and commitment to Chai. Training during the summer heatwave is no easy feat and their achievements are truly awe-inspiring! Step by step along the famous 26.2 mile course, they were there for Chai and all their fantastic efforts helps ensure that Chai can continue to be there step by step for all those who need to turn to us.”