Israeli Teen Kayaker Meets Ninja Israel Finalist to Share Lessons on Overcoming Obstacles

In a special project by ynet and Talma highlighting Israel's promising young athletes, 15-year-old Kama Kaspi from Kfar Giladi met with Tam Shaked, the first woman to reach the finals of "Ninja Israel." Kama, who trained in rhythmic gymnastics for years, was forced to stop due to the war and evacuation from her home. During a search for a new sport, she discovered Olympic kayaking and quickly excelled, becoming one of the sport's rising stars.

Their conversation revealed a shared mindset: focusing on the next challenge rather than the entire journey ahead. Tam shared how she coped with pressure during competitions by concentrating only on the immediate obstacle, a strategy she encouraged Kama to adopt. This advice resonated deeply with Kama, who is now focused on meeting her goals step by step.

After their talk, the two took to the water for a friendly kayak sprint race, where Kama’s skill gave her an edge. Both fell into the water, laughing and bonding over the experience. When asked about her next goal, Kama emphasized her desire to meet her personal targets rather than chasing medals, reflecting the core message of perseverance and forward focus that defined their meeting.

This encounter highlights the resilience and determination shared by athletes at different stages of their careers, united by the belief that success comes from continuing forward despite changing paths and obstacles.