Raisman Makes Olympic Audiences Kvell
American Jews have a new reason to be proud of their country at this year’s 2012 Summer Olympics. Jewish gymnast Aly Raisman first wowed spectators when she earned one of the two spots in the all-around individual finals for the US. Then, she wowed Jews worldwide when performed a floor exercise routine to the tune of “Hava Nagila,” a Hebrew folk song that has become a staple at Jewish weddings and Bar/Bat Mitzvahs.
Raisman, who is just 18-years-old, is not the only gymnast to utilize the catchy tune. It has been a favorite over the years and is a proven crowd-pleaser with gymnastics fans. Still, we loved seeing Jewish ears perk up when they heard the Hebrew standard playing.