Leeds’ own Ari-el Aibi travelled to America on behalf of the UK to compete at the JCC Maccabi Games, an Olympic-style event for more than 1,500 Jewish teens from all over the world.
Ari-el (Moosh) Aibi was chosen to represent the UK at this year’s JCC Maccabi Games in Fort Lauderdale, USA. The 15-year-old was the only person from Leeds to be chosen in the under 16’s squad, making it even more special. Trials were held in Manchester and London before making the trip to America in August.
Moosh has shown dedication and commitment, completing sponsored 5k runs and activities on
his GoFundMe page to raise £1,600 of the £3,600 needed for the trip completely by himself. In Fort Lauderdale the team was housed and hosted by Jewish families before the momentous knockout tournament they had travelled for.
The team successfully went home with the bronze trophy and made their way onto the podium during the closing ceremony. Moosh, having made friends all over England from his time in America, is looking forward to seeing if he can be selected in October for the next European Games which will be held in London next year.