Tikvah
Editors’ Pick

February 17, 2026

The American Jewish Olympian Who Prays Before Each Race

Kamryn Lute, speedskater.

Religion’s role in America’s public culture, which stands in sharp contrast to its role in Western Europe, is not limited to the rhetoric of politicians. Last week, this newsletter mentioned the unabashed displays of faith—especially of the evangelical Christian kind—that have become part of American professional sports. The phenomenon is not limited to evangelical Christians, however. Benyamin Cohen profiles the Jewish speedskater Kamryn Lute, currently representing the U.S. at the Milan Olympics: 

SaveGift