Our Executive

Sarah Stern started running in 2011 when, through work, she got the chance to enter the New York City Marathon. She admits to having no idea what she was getting herself into and absolutely no idea how much running was involved in getting to the start line. She eventually ran New York in 2015, and shortly thereafter decided that she really did like running. During the day, Sarah builds partnerships that increase the capacity of individuals and communities to access good, healthy food. Sarah is really proud to be part of the Harriers, a community filled with runners who inspire and are inspired by each other.

Alistair is the epitome of a passionate runner. While he loves running fast, he’s insistent on running long term which means he believes in running smart, and always tuning into the joy of running. Having run some of his fastest times after the age of 50 (including a 16:51 5km!), Ali has a specialty in helping masters runners access their potential. Despite his middle-distance speed, Ali’s main love is trail running and he has some epic ultra runs (and wins!) under his belt.

Gila Ossip is a CPA and owner of Livelihood, a payroll service provider for families that employ nannies, elder caregivers and other domestic staff. She is a proud mom to 2 teenagers who love to keep her on her toes. Gila loves to run, likes to occasionally race and really enjoys spending time with the Toronto Harriers community.

As the mother of three and a technology lawyer, Christa appreciates the balance and perspective that running provides her. Above all she cherishes the friendships and sense of community the Harriers has brought her.

Maria’s passion for running began in 2009 when she caught the racing bug at the Pride and Remembrance 5K. This sparked her dedication to the sport, and she set her sights on completing a marathon. In 2013, she achieved that goal, and in 2014, she proudly ran her way to Boston. Since then, Maria has continued to race and enjoys daily runs with close friends along the boardwalk and Leslie Spit, where she shares the miles with her fellow Harriers.

Nir has been active all of his life, spending a great deal of his youth playing baseball, hockey & basketball. As he got older, Nir realized that team sports didn’t quite provide enough healthy returns, and he took up running in 2003. 

He hasn’t looked back since, running many races from 5Ks to marathons. Not only has running provided Nir with a much healthier mental & physical lifestyle but, in his own words, “I feel great, am happy and grateful to have met so many wonderful people over the years. Living in Toronto, and the beaches in particular, there is no excuse not to get out the door for a run.” If you run in the beaches, most likely Nir has waved or wished you a good morning. Waking up early is very easy when you have three cats for an alarm clock! Nir always makes time for coffee after the run, and has gathered a community around him, most notably the Thankful Thursday bunch, who you’ll see each week blazing down the Leslie Spit, chatting up a storm and feeling, well, thankful.

When not running, Nir is very active volunteering and working with several charities. He is also one of the founding members of The Beaches Runners Club (BRC).