August 12, 2012

The surprise of the Beijing Games four years ago, Neta Rivkin did it again in London – this time advancing to seventh place overall in the women’s rhythmic gymnastics individual all-around finals. Her performance made Olympic history for Israel’s rhythmic gymnastics field.

Neta Rivkin performs at Olympics 2012.

While Russia was the favorite – and took gold and silver medals in the event – the 21-year-old from Petah Tikva showed the world of gymnastics that Israel is a force to be reckoned with.

Rivkin finished the qualifying rounds in ninth place but showed her true mettle in the finals and ended in seventh overall.

Thanks to her outstanding performance, Rivkin will be honored with carrying the Israeli flag during today’s Olympic closing ceremony.

Meanwhile, the Israeli rhythmic gymnastics group all-around team will compete in the finals today at 15:30 Israel time. The Israeli gymnasts Moran Bozovski, Marina Schultz, Noa Palchi, Victoria Koshel, Polyana Zakolzani and Eliora Zolokovski are currently in seventh place.

More on rhythmic gymnastics