Two New Israeli U23 Athletics Records Set at National Championship in Jerusalem

The 90th Israeli Athletics Championship concluded on July 21, 2026, at the Givat Ram Stadium in Jerusalem after two days of competition featuring multiple notable performances. Two new Israeli U23 records were established: Noam Mamo set a new U23 record in the 400 meters with a time of 46.58 seconds, while Jordan Mental broke both the U23 and U20 pole vault records by clearing 4.16 meters.

Other standout athletes included Gal Arad, who won the 200 meters, and Karwan Halabi Kabbalan, who achieved a double victory in the 1,500 and 800 meters and was named one of the championship's outstanding performers alongside Arad. Olympic athlete Blessing Afrifah was absent due to a hamstring injury and will miss the upcoming European Championships in Birmingham, focusing on rehabilitation in Israel.

In field events, Estelle Valano of Maccabi Tel Aviv won the hammer throw with 50.40 meters, narrowly beating Israeli record holder Evgenia Zabolotni. Romi Tamir secured her third consecutive triple jump title with a 13.12-meter leap. Hila Versano set a new Israeli U18 record in the women's 400-meter hurdles, clocking 59.53 seconds, breaking the one-minute barrier for the first time and preparing for the World Youth Championships in Eugene, Oregon.

In men's 400-meter hurdles, Omri Shiff of Leader Netanya defended his title with 51.76 seconds. Noa Levi of Maccabi Rishon LeZion won the women's 400 meters for the sixth time with a season-best 48.42 seconds. Yishai Ephraimov claimed gold in the long jump with 7.66 meters on his final attempt. Menachem Chen Mendel won the shot put with 18.76 meters, and Lev Skorish took the pole vault title at 5.10 meters. Igor Knyazev secured the hammer throw with 54.27 meters, while Veronica Prodnikov won the women's high jump at 1.65 meters based on fewer fouls. Margarita Dorozhon threw a season-best 47.27 meters to win the javelin.

The championship showcased strong performances across disciplines, with several athletes setting personal and national records as they prepare for upcoming international competitions.