Lenny Krayzelburg- American Olympian, Jewish Values

Posted July 29, 2017 in Uncategorized, Updates

NJY Camps is very proud to host a Total Specialty Camp Week with Four-Time Olympic Gold-Medalist Lenny Krayzelburg! Not only is Lenny Krazelburg a decorated Olympian, but he is also an influential member of the Jewish faith. Born to two Jewish parents, Lenny’s Jewish roots run deep within his community.  When he was 14, he moved to the United States from the Soviet Union with his family. He frequently credits the tight-knit Russian community in Los Angeles for helping him learn the language, so that he could communicate with his coaches and continue his swimming career in the United States. With the help of the Jewish community, he went on to attend the University of Southern California, where he competed swimming competitively, and with great success. He became a naturalized citizen of the United States in 1995 and went on to qualify for US Olympic Trials. In between Olympic trials, he competed in the World Championships and swept the backstroke events in 100 and 200m. In between setting world records, Lenny decided to attend the Maccabiah Games in order to compete with other Jewish athletes and visit Israel, a lifetime goal of his. He competed in the 2000 and 2004 Olympic Games successfully, winning 4 Gold Medals. His achievements outside the pool are just as impressive. In 1998, he was named the Sportsman of the Year by the US Olympic Committee. He was also chosen USA Swimmer of the Year twice, and is currently in the USC Hall of Fame in addition to the Southern California Jewish Sports Hall of Fame. He continues to play an active role in the sport, working with children and adults alike, developing the sport of Swimming and water safety through his own  swimming school. NJY Camps is extremely lucky to have Lenny take time out of his busy schedule to be with us for Swimming Specialty Week. His strong faith, sense of community, and good work ethic make him a perfect role model for the values NJY Camps tries to instill in its campers.

Tags: Gold Medalist, Jewish, Jewish Camp, NJY Camps, Olympian, Olympian Athlete, Olympic Gold Medalist, Olympic Swimmer