Rower to be first Israeli in major Boston race

Israeli team debuts at Head of the Charles race, though injuries and restrictions keep all but one off the water

Israel will be represented for the first time in one of the world’s largest rowing races, which kicks off in Boston Sunday.

Ashkelon native Roni Vorvoreanu, 16, will fly the Israeli flag for the first time in the Head of the Charles Regatta rowing race, considered one of the sport’s premier events.

The Israeli team also includes competitive masters rower Daniel Rutenburg and para-athletes Moran Samuel and Reuven Magnagey. However, due to an injury and eligibility restrictions, junior world champion Vorvoreanu will be the only one competing.

She’s considered a favorite to represent Israel at the 2020 Olympics, according to the Israel Rowing Team website.

Team organizers see Israel’s debut at the prestigious rowing race as an opportunity to support ties between Israel and New England and raise awareness for para-rowing competitions for people with physical disabilities, according to the team’s website.

The Israeli rowing team partnered with Resolute Racing Shells and its co-founder Michael Joukowsky, who provided the necessary equipment and funding for the trip.

As Joukowsky became involved with the Israeli rowing team, his family history took on a central role. Joukowsky’s grandparents were honored in 2006 by Yad Vashem as “Righteous Among the Nations” for helping rescue thousands of Jews across Nazi-occupied Europe during the Holocaust, according to the Boston Globe.

Team organizer Avi Nevel believes that the partnership was meant to be.

“Some people couldn’t see the value of bringing all these people together, but I truly believe in things happening for a reason,” Nevel told the Globe.

Rutenberg and Magnagey, a para-rower, were set to compete in a doubles event, but a recent back injury to Magnagey, who was wounded in Jenin while serving in the IDF, prevented either from competing.

Para-rowing champion and paraplegic Moran Samuel will also not be competing in this weekend’s event since Head of Charles does not offer a category for athletes who only use arms and shoulders in a singles event.

Samuel will attend the event and lobby for more competitions for the handicapped.