Jewish rhythmic gymnast’s pride in fulfilling her Olympic dream

Alexandra Kiroi-Bogatrevya is a rhythmic gymnast on a mission - to lead and level up rhythmic gymnastics in Australia. The 22-year-old is driven by her own goals and dreams of representing her country and performing at the highest level possible.

The dream will come true later this month after she earned selection in her first Australian Olympic team.

Kiroi-Bogatrevya is one of three debutants, along with fellow gymnast Jess Weintraub and canoeist Noemie Fox, among the five Jewish athletes heading to Paris. They will join Jess Fox, a canoeing gold medallist from Tokyo (and Noemie’s older sister), and racewalker Jemima Montag.

Kiroi-Bogatrevya understands the significance of her presence as a Jewish athlete at these Olympics. "I think [us Jewish athletes being there]… is a power move," she told The Jewish Independent. "I hope that by us being there, people can see that we’re strong no matter what. "

A product of the Melbourne Jewish community, where she attended the King David School, Kiroi-Bogatrevya expressed her pride in being selected for her first Olympic team and adding her name to a growing Jewish sporting legacy.

“I have been working towards the Olympic Games my whole life," she said. "When I found out, I had so many tears. My family and my friends, my coaches were all just bawling their eyes out and it was a very emotional time.

“No matter how many people tell me this now, I still can’t believe it... I'm just very excited for the journey towards Olympic Games and for the actual events to begin. I feel very honoured and proud to be joining such an illustrious group."