With the start of the JCC Maccabi Campus Games fast approaching, this week we next focus on the prospects of Team GB’s track & field and swimming squads in Pittsburgh.
Leading both delegations is Rachel Ayrton, who said she’s “absolutely thrilled with the athletes we’ve brought together”, adding: “They’re a truly committed and talented group. Most are London-based, but they represent a range of schools, clubs, and backgrounds, which makes the team all the more special. I’m especially proud that some haven’t come from traditional Jewish school backgrounds, yet they’ve chosen to connect through sport and their Jewish identity. We selected them based not just on ability, but on their attitude, dedication, and commitment to the team and their sport.”
Many of the athletes compete regularly for clubs such as St Albans AC, Blackheath & Bromley, London Heathside and Bushey Swimming Club, while also training with their school teams. Ayrton said: “It’s a strong, competitive, and well-prepared group.
“We’ve had several productive training sessions, not only focusing on performance, but also building strong team spirit. There’s one final training session before we fly, where we’ll be selecting our captain and vice-captain. The excitement is building, and they’ve been putting in the hard work both individually and together.
“I recently got the opportunity to watch our fantastic swimmer Zac Jacobs in his club championships. Not only did he record a personal best and take home the gold medal in the 100m butterfly, in between events he was helping the younger swimmers. He is a fantastic addition to the Team Maccabi GB team this year.”
Describing how much the athletes are looking forward to the start of the Games, she said: “The energy and anticipation is so fantastic. For them, this is an incredible opportunity to represent not just their sport, but their country and their Jewish identity on an international stage.
“I’m confident they’ll gain lifelong memories, deep friendships, and a real sense of pride and connection that will stay with them well beyond the Games.”
In terms of the opposition Ayrton is anticipating in the States, she said: “We know the standard will be high and the competition tough. Our athletes are up for the challenge. Weather-wise, it may be a shift from what they’re used to, but we’ve spoken about staying hydrated, preparing smartly, and adapting. I think they’ll take it in their stride.”
Ayrton is well-placed to know what the squad can expect, having experienced a Games as a competitor herself. “l was lucky enough to compete at this level myself, both in track and field and in swimming, and those summers were some of the happiest of my life”, she said. “To now be in a position to give back and help these young athletes have their own unforgettable experience is an absolute privilege.
“Of course we have strong medal hopes – they are all fantastic athletes – but just as important is the experience itself. This is about taking part, doing their best, and building those amazing memories and friendships with Jewish athletes from around the world.
“And I also want to give a final mention to our star reporter Arielle Lindsay, who will be on hand to capture all the magic of the Games.”
Track & Field squad: Lila Blustin, Melody Lindsey, Alex Peterman, Finn Gotkine, Daniel Durrant, Teddy Stebbing, Jonah Craig, Zoe Kowall
Swimming: Zac Jacobs
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