Olympic gold for Oradell's Hezly Rivera and U.S. women's gymnastics

Oradell, N.J. celebrated Oradell native Hezly Rivera's gold medal win with a watch party at Oradell Public School, and the town hopes to host a ticker tape parade for her when she returns.

Oradell, N.J. (PIX11) -- Oradell native Hezly Rivera is part of the U.S. women’s gymnastics team winning gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics on Tuesday.

Rivera, an Olympic newcomer, did not compete but still earned a medal alongside teammates Simone Biles, Jordan Chiles, Suni Lee and Jade Carey.

The Oradell community celebrated Rivera with a watch party at Oradell Public School, which Rivera attended for second and third grades.

“We thought it was a great way to bring the community together,” said Oradell Schools Superintendent Megan Bozios.

“We really wanted to cheer on Hezly,” said 13-year-old A.J. Castro. “She brought so much pride to our town. We’re very proud of her.”

“Being one of five on the U.S. Olympic team for gymnastics is a phenomenal accomplishment,” said Oradell Mayor James Koth.

Students donned plastic gold medals and waved American flags while watching Team USA from the school’s auditorium.

“I still look up to her,” said Madeline Boyle, who once attended the same gymnastics school as Rivera. “She’s 16, and she’s in the Olympics. It’s really cool.”

Aspiring Olympic gymnast and Oradell resident Bella De Vito was among those who attended the watch party.

“You know that someone else can do it, so you have a chance at being able to do it, too,” said De Vito.

The Town of Oradell hopes to host a ticker tape parade for Rivera the next time she is in town.