Fun Run raises funds and spirits

MORE than 100 runners and walkers, of all ages, joined the Maccabi Life NSW February Fun Run last Sunday at picturesque Centennial Park. The event, which combined exercise with an opportunity to hear from an inspirational guest speaker, and raise funds for an Israel-based charity in the medical sector at the same time. Ultra-marathon runner, ovarian cancer survivor and author Heather Hawkins shared her remarkable life journey to provide perspective and food for thought for the crowd before tackling the fun run and walk. She shed light on initially struggling to complete a 4km fun run to conquering one of the greatest running challenges on the planet – seven marathons in seven continents in seven days, which she wrote about in her book Adventurous Spirit. Doron Lazarus, from Save a Child’s Heart, spoke about the power of community and compassion. The event raised much needed funds for the Israeli non-government organisation, whose mission is to save the lives of critically ill children suffering from heart disease in third world countries. For the record, the men’s 10km run winner was Adam Gordon, and Ella Joelsson was the women’s 5km run winner. They received a bag of goodies and a copy of Hawkins’ book as prizes. The organisers thanked volunteers, marshals and Rabbi Yossi Friedman from Rabbi On Demand, for his participation and impromptu words of wisdom to all participants, which raised energy levels and spirits at the start line. Maccabi Life extended its gratitude to its sponsors and partners who joined in the fun run, including Runners Shop Clovelly, Shoes for Planet Earth, JS Health, 2XU, Fit Nutrition, Wholelife Nutrition, and Coles for donating prizes and gift cards for participants. Nicole Katz, who leads Maccabi Life in NSW, said, “We couldn’t have asked for a better start to 2024. “Maccabi Life caters to all, regardless of age or ability, and with an exciting lineup of events ahead, we are looking forward to welcoming members of our community to join us. “I encourage everyone to follow us on social media for updates, and to be part of the fun!”

SOURCE: AJN