In pictures: Jewish charities get a run for their money!

More than 4,500 people attended Sunday’s 10th Maccabi GB Community Fun Run, with thousands of pounds raised for good causes.

Some 2,500 people of all ages, representing 69 communal organisations, took part in events covering five distances from 1k to 10k at Allianz Park in Hendon.

Participants came from all over the world, and raised funds charities including Jewish Care, Kisharon, the Jewish Deaf Association and Emunah.

Each event was launched by VIP starters. Mark Regev, Israeli Ambassador to the UK, began the 10km event; Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis launched the 5km distance and Mayor of Barnet, Councilor David Longstaff, kicked off the 1km event.

The youngest participant was only a few weeks old, crossing the line in a pram, while there were medals awarded for 10km and 5km race winners, Asher Brooks and Daniel Cohen.

Maccabi GB’s Neil Taylor, who organised the event, said, “There are so many positives to say about this event it is difficult to know where to begin. I think, firstly, it has been an incredible and successful day. From the thousands of runners and participants to all the Jewish charities and schools who all make this event what it is, the enthusiasm and passion for today was palpable.

“The Maccabi GB Community Fun Run is about more than record-breaking. The event brings together all kinds of Jewish people – grandparents, long-distance runners, toddlers, those who train in the gym five times a week, those who walk to the shops once a week”.

Jessica Overlander-Kaye, MGB head of programmes, added, “This event is made by the Community. We want to thank all the charities, schools, sponsors, vendors and partners for making this day as amazing as it was. Finally, we want to thank the record-breaking participants and spectators for making this the biggest Community Fun Run and one of the largest Jewish sporting fundraiser in the history of the UK.”

Since its launch in 2007 the Maccabi GB Community Fun Run has raised more than £1,250,000.