On Sunday, March 20, 15 members of Team OHEL crossed the finish line at the 2016 United Airlines NYC Half Marathon. Despite the extremely cold temperature, Team OHEL cheerleaders provided tons of spirit, music, fan signs and blow horns encouraging all the runners to get to the finish line!
Team OHEL has participated with NYRR as a charity partner in the annual TCS NYC Marathon since 2009, but this was the first time that Team OHEL participated as a charity partner in United Airlines NYC Half.
“We are very appreciative of all of our runners’ fundraising efforts that benefit children and adults with disabilities, foster children, and children in domestic-violence shelters,” said Meital Cafri, Event Coordinator for OHEL.
“Running in the NYC Half Marathon was so much fun. This was my first race, first half marathon and obviously first personal best! I really felt like I was making a difference in the lives of children and families of OHEL; I only wish I could have done more. I can’t wait to do it again! The organization was amazing. It wouldn’t have been the same intensity for training and commitment if it were not for the inspiration from OHEL,” said Team OHEL member Linda Isaacson, who was the team’s second top fundraiser.
The top fundraiser for the Half Marathon was Bruce Prince. Top runners of Team OHEL ranked as follows: 1st place, Max Tawil (1:28); 2nd place, Morris Elbaz (1:45); 3rd place, Gabriel Sutton (1:47) and 4th place, David Brand (1:48).
While Team OHEL has crossed the finish line, there’s still the incredible opportunity to support the OHEL Simcha Fund. This fund covers the cost of lifecycle events of hundreds of OHEL children and adults—from celebrating births and b’risim, to bar/bat mitzvah, to graduation. If you are interested in participating in other Team OHEL events, such as the New York 5 Boro Bike Tour (May 1), OHEL Xtreme Challenge (May 15), or the 2016 TCS NYC Marathon (November 6), please contact Meital Cafrat at 718-686-3217 or [email protected].
Those who have already secured spots in the 5 Boro Bike Tour and 2016 TCS NYC Marathon are welcome to become part of Team OHEL and support the team’s sponsorship goals. Those who aren’t running can still stay in the race by sponsoring a Team OHEL member or making a contribution.
