The new diamond of athletics: Joshua Jayden Harel chose to represent Israel
Born in Australia, raised in the USA, and decided to compete for Israel. The 17-year-old high jump talent, who cleared 1.96 m at age 13, trains under legend Dwight Stones and dreams of clearing 2.40 meters. His journey is a story of connection to his roots, family support, and a desire to bring glory to the country.
Gersh Gershkovich, a talent scout for Maccabi Tel Aviv, has seen many stars rise at the Hadar Yosef stadium. However, Joshua Jayden Harel, known as "J.J.," is a rare talent. He is a versatile athlete, excelling not only in the high jump but also in javelin and the decathlon.
"He is a coordinated, light athlete who seems to do everything effortlessly," Gershkovich notes. "He has everything needed to reach the highest level."
Born in Australia and raised in the USA from the age of five, Harel maintained a deep emotional connection to Israel through visits to his grandparents in Herzliya and Rehovot. Ahead of the World Athletics U20 Championships, he officially chose to represent Israel.
The Path to the Top
At just 13, Harel set a US age-group record by clearing 1.96 m. At the World Youth Championships in Eugene, he finished eighth with a jump of 2.17 m, a result he considered disappointing due to an injury. His personal best currently stands at 2.20 m, but his coaches believe his ceiling is much higher.
"My dream is for him to one day clear 2.40 meters," says Gershkovich. "His potential is immense."
Education and Mentorship
Beyond athletics, Harel is a mathematical prodigy. During his youth, he would spend his free time at the stadium studying physics and mathematics with his grandfather to accelerate his schooling.
His mentor is the legendary high jumper Dwight Stones, a two-time Olympic bronze medalist. The connection was facilitated by a Los Angeles synagogue cantor who knew Harel's father. Stones, who converted to Judaism in 1995, speaks highly of his student: "If he stays healthy, he can go far. With consistent training in the coming year, he is capable of reaching 2.26–2.30 m."
Choosing Israel
Despite the challenging political climate, Harel is proud of his Israeli and Jewish identity, often wearing a Star of David and observing Jewish traditions.
"I want to bring joy to the country, especially in a sport where there aren't many Israelis," says Joshua. "I made the decision to represent Israel in Jerusalem, right after the national championship final."
Looking ahead, Harel will begin his studies at the University of Southern California and aims to reach the finals of the college championships. His long-term goals include challenging the Israeli U20 record (2.30 m) and succeeding at the 2027 European Championships.
