Hundreds of runners, fundraising for 19 charities, ran 5km in the annual Muslim Charity Run at Victoria Park, Bow, East London on Sunday 17 September 2017. This year saw a particular focus on raising funds for the Rohingya.

The East London Mosque has been working to promote a healthier lifestyle within the community and was delighted to welcome runners from all age groups. Health stalls staffed by five doctors were available for runners and supporters to check their blood pressure, diabetes and BMI, and to raise any health concerns they had.

A warm-up session, run by Aroz Miah from the Bangladesh Football Association, made sure runners were ready to take on the challenge of the 5km course!

The winner completed the whole course in under 20 minutes! Prizes were given to the fastest runner in each age category, and every participant received a special medal.

Dilowar Khan, Executive Director of the East London Mosque, once again completed the run himself: “Running alongside many of our worshippers, young and old, is a humbling experience. It is refreshing to see so many people keen to raise money for charity, especially for the Rohingya Muslims who are suffering so much.”

Senior Fundraising Officer for the ELM, Tozommul Ali, said: "Over 350 runners took part in this 6th annual Muslim Charity Run. We thank everyone for taking part, especially our charity partners who help make this event happen every year. I hope even more people can join next year, helping charities and being fit and active.”

The Mayor of Tower Hamlets, John Biggs, praised the community for its charitable activities, and said: “It’s great to be here today in Victoria Park with people from all age groups and backgrounds raising money for good causes. I want to congratulate the East London Mosque for arranging the Muslim Fun Run and all the runners today who took part.” He then presented prizes to the winners in each age group:

Under 12s: Md Ikraam Hussain

13-17: Ibrahim Azad

18-34: Muslim Al-Tayeb

35-50: Mohamed Hirsi

51+: Sanu Miah

We like to thank our sponsors: Islamic Relief, Human Appeal, Human Aid, Muntada Aid, Human Relief Foundation, Muslim Aid, Penny Appeal, Muslim Hands, Islamic Help, Bamfords Trust, Bombay Fashions, Haji Taslim Funerals, London Sunnah Circumcision, Kuddus Solicitors, Feast & Mishti, Al Manar Islamic Shop, Zahra Solicitors, East End Training, The Atrium, Omega Accountants Ltd, Salma Designer Abaya House, Mint Caterers, Aerial Ark, Eman Channel and All Season Foods.