By Jeff Gates, Sports Specialist

Yesterday, OSRUI hosted the 2014 Maccabiah Games!  It was fun-filled day where chanich (camper) at camp is on one of four teams that compete against each other for the coveted Maccabiah Cup.  The theme for this year was Teva (nature).  The four teams that competed were Red-Aish (fire), Blue-Mayim (water), White-Ruach (wind), and Green-Adama (earth).  The 24-hour event began with an epic all camp tug of war after opening ceremonies!

We woke up the next morning and joined together as a camp for t’fillot (services), and after breakfast the competition continued.  Basketball, soccer, swimming relays, competitive art creations were just some of the activities before lunch.  Points were earned and anticipation grew as each team pushed for first place.

When lunch was finished, and we all had a nap back at our tzrifim (cabins) and ohelim (tents), we were back at it with Mud GaGa and Capture the Flag.  Others did educational activities centered around our theme of Teva.

Our last competition was the Meshugahnnah Race – a race that touches every aspect an area of camp, a race that involves almost 400 kids. The race ends by climbing our Etgar tower.  It was amazing to see participants of every age group, and all of their teammates cheering them on!  We gathered at the Bitan to show everyone the art creations and announce the winner.  When the games were over, we returned to our Eidot outside and ate dinner together picnic-style.

Congratulations to the White team – Ruach, the 2014 Maccabiah Cup Champions!