UNC swimmers Adam Maraana and Martin Kartavi, both hailing from Israel, recently shared their unforgettable experiences from the 2024 Paris Olympics. The duo, who competed at the highest level of their sport, faced immense challenges, overcoming setbacks and injuries. Their time in the Olympic Village, filled with excitement and surreal moments, marked a significant chapter in their careers. Now, as they transition to collegiate swimming at the University of North Carolina, both swimmers bring invaluable experience and a strong drive to succeed.
The Road to the Olympics
From a young age, Adam Maraana dreamed of the Olympics. Growing up in Haifa, Israel, his love for swimming began naturally, as he lived near the coast and spent countless hours at the beach his father managed. By age 5, Maraana placed a picture of the Olympic rings on his bedroom door, setting his sights on the prestigious Games. His mother, Alexandra Nikonov, notes that Maraana’s determination to succeed was evident early on, always striving to be the best in everything he did.
Despite failing to qualify for the 2024 Games nine times over eight months, Maraana finally secured his spot in June 2024 at the Israel Olympic Trials. With a 100-meter backstroke time of 53.60, just under the qualifying cut of 53.74, he punched his ticket to the Paris Olympics. Alongside him was future UNC teammate Martin Kartavi, who also represented Israel in the 50-meter freestyle.
Meeting and Bonding on the International Stage
The two swimmers first met as teenagers at international meets. Kartavi, from Netanya, Israel, initially thought Maraana was overly confident, while Maraana thought Kartavi was a “dumb kid.” However, once they started talking, they discovered they shared the same ambitions. Their friendship quickly grew, and they began rooming together for every international meet, despite occasional concerns from their coaches about their playful antics.
Kartavi and Maraana’s bond was more than just about swimming; they supported each other in both their athletic and personal lives. “They are great friends,” said Maraana’s mother, noting how the duo has always been there for one another, even through challenging times.
The Olympic Experience
Arriving at the Olympic Village in June 2024, Maraana and Kartavi were filled with excitement. Although they had been training in Italy before the Games, their first moments in the Olympic Village were unforgettable. Kartavi described riding bikes around the dark facilities, enjoying the moment like “little kids.” They were in awe of their surroundings, especially when they finally saw the iconic Olympic rings displayed everywhere. For Maraana, it was surreal to see the rings that had hung on his bedroom door for years. “I was putting my hands on my head,” Maraana recalled, in disbelief at the magnitude of the moment.
Kartavi, too, was amazed. It didn’t feel real until the starter called out “take your marks.” “When the whistle went off, that’s when I felt all my energy pushing through me,” Kartavi said. Although he finished tied for 19th in the 50-meter freestyle, the experience of competing at the highest level left an indelible mark on him.
Maraana, despite finishing 28th in the 100-meter backstroke, found comfort in knowing he gave it his all. “I’ve never done that much hard work in my entire life in one season,” he said. “I sacrificed everything for it.”
New Beginnings at UNC
After the Olympics, Maraana and Kartavi faced new challenges as they transitioned to collegiate life. Maraana, who had always dreamt of attending a prestigious university, chose UNC for its renowned athletic program and high post-graduation success rates. His decision to join the Tar Heels was motivated by the university’s international prestige and its world-class coaching staff.
Kartavi, on the other hand, faced more uncertainty. Struggling with an injury, he was unsure if he could continue swimming. However, UNC’s coaching staff reached out to him, offering support and encouragement. After careful consideration, Kartavi decided to pursue his swimming career at UNC, and his transition has been smoother with Maraana by his side. “He helped me,” Kartavi said. “He guided me. He told me what to say, what not to say. He’s basically my dad.”
A Strong Influence on Their Team
Now at UNC, Maraana and Kartavi are already making an impact on the swim and dive team. Fifth-year swimmer Patrick Hussey, who competed in the Olympics for Canada, recalled seeing Maraana warm up at the Games and immediately recognizing his dedication. “I was like, ‘Yeah, this guy’s legit,’” Hussey said.
Maraana and Kartavi’s Olympic experience gives them a unique perspective that is valuable to their teammates. Head coach Mark Gangloff emphasized that having former Olympians on the team raises the level of expectation for everyone. “You see so much potential in them,” Gangloff said. “We believe they’re going to be a lot faster once they’re in our program.”
For both Maraana and Kartavi, the Olympics were just a stepping stone. Their goal is to continue improving and striving for even greater success. “Almost every swimmer’s goal is to reach the Olympics,” Maraana said. “But once you do, you don’t just stop there. You set no limits.”
Kartavi shares this ambition. Every day, he is reminded of what he didn’t achieve in Paris and is motivated to push harder for the 2028 Olympics. “They’re all gonna tell you, they’re not satisfied with anything they’ve done,” Maraana said, reflecting on the relentless drive that defines elite athletes.
As they settle into life at UNC, the duo is excited for the next chapter, knowing that their Olympic journey has only just begun.
Adam Maraana and Martin Kartavi’s Olympic experiences have shaped them into stronger athletes and individuals. As they now navigate the challenges of collegiate swimming at UNC, they bring with them invaluable lessons from the world stage. Their journey is far from over, and with their determination and unwavering drive, both swimmers are poised to make a lasting impact on the Tar Heel swimming program.
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