The Jewish Link of New Jersey and Gotham Burger would like to recognize eight year old Gabriel Blank as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. Blank recently medaled in the statewide track championships with a 5:30 mile. He is now undefeated in his last 10 5k races with a first place finish in all. He’s running a 22 minute race and also won his second straight CMEK championship.

Gabe, congratulations on your medal and back to back CMEK championship wins. Who is your role model and why?

My mom and dad because of how hard they work and how they treat people.

What are your favorite sports?

Basketball and running.

What is your greatest sports accomplishment?

Running 1500 meters in five minutes and 30 seconds, which was third fastest in Bergen County for the 9-10 year old division while I’m only eight! I was lucky to do this on the same week I won a championship with CMEK.

Who is your favorite athlete and why?

Steph Curry because he does it all and is a winner—league’s best shooter, fantastic ball handler, solid defense, makes his teammates better and a champion.

What is your pregame routine?

Before races I wake up early, eat breakfast, run a mile with my Dad, say shema, close my eyes for a minute to relax and then it’s time to roll.

What is your favorite sports memory?

Winning two CMEK championships with my Moriah buddies and winning 11 5K races for the 10 & under age group paced by my Dad.

What is your favorite thing to do when not playing sports?

Hang out with my sisters and friends.

What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?

I don’t know. I just love competition and whether it’s running with the Englewood Raiders track team or playing basketball at CMEK. I want to do everything I can to be a great teammate.

The Jewish Link of New Jersey and Gotham Burger Sportstar of the Week will receive a $10 gift certificate to Gotham Burger. Please send nominees for next week’s Jewish Link of New Jersey and Gotham Burger Sportstar of the Week to [email protected].