Team Chai’s marathon efforts raise over £54,300 at the TCS London Marathon

Nine 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 £54,300, with donations still coming in.

Sonny Gayer and his father, Darren, took on the iconic route together for Chai and the pair have so far raised a phenomenal £11,017. Sonny and Darren completed the marathon in 4 hours 50 minutes. Sonny said: “Chai were so kind when it came to my grandfather being ill several years ago and I’ll never forget it.”

Danny Tricot turned 50 and decided it was time he ran a marathon. Danny said “I have very close family and friends whose lives were cut short by cancer. I was truly moved when I heard from a couple of them about what Chai had done for them.” Danny completed the marathon in 3 hours 52 minutes and raised a phenomenal £19,200. 

Aryeh Richman finished the London Marathon in a time of 4 hours 32 minutes and has raised £4,648 to date. He explains: “It was a privilege running for Chai to help them with the incredible work they do to support people and their families through some of their darkest times.”

Veteran marathon runner, Ricki Stone, who has so far raised £4,479 finished the marathon 4 hours 53 minutes. Following the marathon, she said: “Running is so symbolic of life. You have to drive yourself to overcome the obstacles. You might feel that you can’t. But then you find your inner strength, and realise you are capable of so much more than you thought. You don’t have to be the best you have to give it your best. Chai Cancer Care it was an absolute honour and a real privilege to run for you.”

Ben Horn who also took on the marathon for Chai had a time of 3 hours 19 minutes. Ben, who has so far raised £3,830, said: “My sister, Steph (a physio) is just one of the many people who contribute to the amazing services that Chai provide when an individual, their families or friends need support the most. Running the marathon is one step I can make towards helping this fantastic charity.”

Victor Arotsky completed the marathon in 3 hours 26 minutes and raised £2,963. Victor said: “When my dad was diagnosed with cancer our family was thrown into an unfamiliar world with no instruction manual. Chai were able to act as our one-stop-shop for advice, support and care. Even after my dad passed away, Chai have continued to support us. I am so proud to be able to help raise some funds for the great work that they do by taking part in the marathon this year.”

The rest of Team Chai was made up by: Simon Kutner, who has so far raised £4,698 and Lucy Cohen, who has raised £3,448.

Louise Hager, Chai’s Chairman, said: “We are in awe and salute all our runners for their incredible dedication and commitment. Training for a marathon is no easy feat and through all their efforts, Chai can continue to be there for all those who need to turn to us.”