Hi everyone, I am running my first half marathon at the Hackney Half for the Zohar Dean Trust in May.

The ZDT was set up in 2022 after my friend Zohar tragically passed away. He was my best friend since we were babies, and his death has left a massive hole in our lives.

The ZDT was set up to continue Zohar's legacy, raising funds for small, local, and youth-led charities. In the past we have helped out with young refugess, local youth groups, and so much more. Applications are now open for our 2026 round of funding! To find out more please check out our socials or visit out website at https://www.thezohardeantrust.com/ for more details.

As well as being my first half marathon, it is also taking place less than a year after my dad passed. He did loads of ridiculous sports challenges to raise money for charity - for an Ironman finisher like himself, a half marathon is just a warmup. The shock of Zohar's death severely impacted my dad's training for his Ironman but he managed to find the strength to complete it; I will be channeling this same strength as I struggle through the streets of East London.