This is my family with a very special friend, Cochav Bitaw. Cochav is a world class long distance runner. My goal is to help him fulfill his dream of competing in the Olympics as a member of the Israeli Olympic Team. Unlike athletes in America, Israel's athletes receive little in the way of state funding. Due to the poor economy in Israel at this time it has become increasingly difficult for young athletes to fund their training, Cochav being no exception. That is why I have taken on the challenge of raising money to fund Cochav's training, and insure his chance to win gold at the Olympics for Israel. Cochav has missed his chance for Athens this year due to his army service. He is now setting his sights on the World Championships in 2005. In order to be ready for this upcoming challenge, and the next Olympics, Cochav is trying to get to Ethiopia for 5 months of intensive training. Unfortunately the cost is about $2500 and he doesn't have the funds to get there right now.

Cochav's Story

Cochav was born January 20, 1977 in Ethiopia and immigrated to Israel in 1991 with his family. He started running in 1993, and found that he excelled at long distance running. He was always among the top 3 long distance runners in the country. After high school Cochav obtained his degree in Physical Education from the Wingate Institute in Netanya, Israel. At this time he is serving in the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) as a physical training instructor.

Cochav has run and won many races over the years. Here is a small list of just a few of his achievements:

1994 World Championship in China - 8th in the 5000m

1997 Israeli Mini Marathon - 1st place

1999 European Championship - 4th in the 1500m

 Is still ranked in the top 4 in Israel today.                                                                   

How You Can Help!

 At this time it costs Cochav 2500 Sheckels (or about $520) a month for his trainer and he is on his way to Ethiopia for 5 months of training. Because he also helps support his family he is not always able to afford the trainer each month and the training in Ethiopia is costly. I am looking for donations and /or a sponsor to help Cochav pay for his training. Unfortunately your contribution will not be tax deductible, but will help Cochav achieve his goal of winning gold for Israel at the Olympics.

Pictures of Cochav

How we met

Links