US swimmer Lezak skips Worlds for Maccabiah Games

JERUSALEM — Olympic gold medalist Jason Lezak says his Jewish heritage has inspired him to compete in Israel's Maccabiah Games instead of the upcoming World Swimming Championships in Rome.

The three-time Olympic gold medalist said on Sunday that his goal is still to bring home the gold for the U.S.

The Maccabiah Games are an international competition for Jewish athletes held every four years in Israel. The 10-day competition opens July 13. The World Swimming Championships begin July 18.

Lezak gained worldwide recognition in the 2008 Beijing Olympics' 400 meter freestyle relay when he overtook the world record-holding French swimmer on the final lap. Lezak's lap helped teammate Michael Phelps to a record eight gold medals.

Lezak will compete in multiple events at the Maccabiah.