$1 million in funding
for security initiatives each year
JewishColumbus is proud to welcome a group of Israeli cyclists who were deeply affected when Hamas tragically killed 1200 and kidnapped more than 200 on October 7. This delegation will proudly participate in Pelotonia thanks to the Israeli organization Project 24.
11 passionate cyclists from the Gaza Envelope kibbutzim and moshavim had a plan for October 7, a morning bike ride just like any normal Saturday. But this time, instead of a calm ride and fresh air, they faced the terrible terror attack.
Project 24 “Cyclists Project” honors their resilience and supports their healing through their superpower: cycling.
This group of riders experienced horrific events while out on the bike trails. Some were wounded by terrorist gunfire, others bravely fought against hundreds of terrorists alongside their community’s emergency units, and some were forced to hide in safe rooms, clutching door handles for two harrowing days. Many within the cycling community lost family members, close friends, and fellow riders.
Participating cyclists include:
Larry Butler from Kibbutz Nir Oz, who survived the October 7th tragedy and rides in memory of 71 lost and 38 kidnapped loved ones. The Hamas attacks affected him directly. His best friend, Offer Kalderon, remains in Hamas captivity and he lost many friends including 3 riding partners. He is keeping hope to see Offer again in the future and has an ever-present happiness.
Larry has been riding competitively for 10 years but has never ridden a road bike. Mountain bikes are his passion and he finds them much more comfortable to ride. Larry is looking forward to seeing all of us in Columbus and thanks us for keeping Israelis in our thoughts.
Avichai Brodutch from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, also a survivor, is riding to support those still held captive including the five people still held in captivity from his hometown, and to honor the lives affected. Avichai lived through a nightmare on October 7th. Many died in his kibbutz and 19 people were taken hostage, including his wife, Hagar Brodutch, and his three children Ofri, 10, Yuval, 9 and Oriya, 4. They were released after 51 days in captivity and he is thankful to have them home. They are healing and learning how to live a new life.
Haim Medina from Kibbutz Urim, who was shot during the attacks, rides in memory of friends lost that day, including fellow cyclists. Haim had direct contact with the Hamas terrorists on October 7th. He was shot and survived with minimal lasting effects. In addition to surviving a gunshot wound, he is a cancer survivor and previously organized a special ride in Israel to honor memory of those lost.
These courageous individuals exemplify Pelotonia’s mission to end cancer through fundraising and community engagement. Their stories are poignant reminders of the event’s profound impact.
JewishColumbus is committed to offering opportunities for local community members to connect with Israelis and Jews from around the world. Bringing riders from Israel is another way we continue to support Israelis during these harrowing times. Following the events of October 7, it has become more imperative than ever to maintain close relationships with Israel and support our brothers and sisters affected by the conflict. We remain steadfast in our commitment to share their stories and to support the concept that “Never Again is Now.” This commitment is one of the reasons we are so excited to bring a delegation of cyclists from the Gaza Envelope to Columbus at the end of the month.
With travel to Israel being uncertain these days, we are thrilled to have the opportunity not only to bring these riders here to share their stories of survival and rebuilding but also to have them participate in such an important local event.
About Pelotonia: Pelotonia is a community-driven fundraising initiative with a mission to fund innovative cancer research. Since its inception, Pelotonia has raised millions of dollars, directing 100% of participant-raised funds to The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute.
For more information about Pelotonia and its impact, visit https://www.pelotonia.org/
About JewishColumbus:
JewishColumbus is the largest funder of Jewish programs in Columbus—serving and enriching our community from birth to senior living through planned giving and our Annual Campaign. JewishColumbus was created in partnership with the Columbus Jewish Foundation and the Jewish Federation of Columbus.
For more information about JewishColumbus and its initiatives, please visit www.jewishcolumbus.org.
We’re taking this amazing opportunity to meet and cheer on these riders with everything from a Shabbat Service to a Brunch and Learn.
In addition to the events, spectators are an important part of the unique, inspiring experience of Pelotonia Ride Weekend. We appreciate everyone who comes out and cheers for the Riders!
August 1 | 9:30 am | JCC of Greater Columbus
FREE for JCC Members.
Sign up on Mindbody starting July 29.
August 1 | 11:00 am | JCC of Greater Columbus
Open to the community and hosted by JewishColumbus. The cyclists will be speaking on their experiences on October 7th.
August 2 | 6:00 pm | Temple Israel
You’ll have the unique chance to hear the stories of the Israel delegation participating in Pelotonia during the Shabbat service. They are riding to raise money against cancer, honoring the victims of October 7th, and sharing their experiences as Hamas terrorist attack survivors.
Registration will be available on July 29th.
