The 16th Maccabiah

In the months leading up to the 16th Maccabiah, expectations were high. Intensive preparations and international registrations hinted at record-breaking participation and outstanding athletic performances. However, a wave of terror attacks, culminating in the tragic Dolphinarium attack in Tel Aviv (June 2001), led to uncertainty. Major delegations debated postponing the Games by a year, with some even considering cancellation.

In June 2001, an emergency meeting of Maccabi leaders took place, attended by senior Israeli government officials. The message was clear: the Maccabiah must go on. Assurances of exceptional security measures helped solidify the decision to proceed without delay.

For the first time in Maccabiah history, the Opening Ceremony was held at Teddy Stadium in Jerusalem on July 16. The event was a powerful statement of resilience, attracting an unprecedented global television audience. President Moshe Katsav officially opened the Games in the presence of Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, the Prime Minister of Romania, Israeli cabinet ministers, diplomats, and Jewish leaders from around the world—all demonstrating solidarity with Israel during a challenging period. Israel’s star pole-vaulter, Alex Averbukh, carried the Maccabiah Torch into the stadium, while Keren Leibovitch, Israel’s triple gold medalist from the Sydney 2000 Paralympics, had the honor of lighting the flame.

Despite the security concerns, the Maccabiah drew a strong turnout. A total of 2,200 athletes from 46 countries joined 1,100 Israeli competitors, making it a fiercely competitive event. Among the European delegations, Britain, Russia, Germany, France, and Turkey sent particularly strong teams, while the USA, Canada, and Argentina were impressively represented.

The swimming competition saw an electrifying performance by triple Olympic gold medalist and world record-holder Lenny Krayzelburg (USA). Israeli swimmers dominated most events, while Russian Olympic gold medalists Maria Mazina and Sergei Charikov shone in fencing. The judo and tennis competitions also stood out for their high level of competition.

Meanwhile, the Junior Maccabiah, held in Zichron Ya’akov, once again proved to be a resounding success, fostering the next generation of Jewish athletes.

The Closing Ceremony, held at Sultan’s Pool in Jerusalem, provided a fitting end to an unforgettable 16th Maccabiah. Attended by Prime Minister Sharon and Jerusalem Mayor Ehud Olmert, the event celebrated the resilience, achievements, and spirit of all participants.

Notable Athletes, Winners, and Sports Achievements:

•  Triple Olympic gold medalist and world record-holder Lenny Krayzelburg (USA) was the standout performer in the swimming competition, which was otherwise dominated by Israeli athletes.

Russian Olympic gold medalists Maria Mazina and Sergei Charikov shone in the fencing tournament.