The 17th Maccabiah

The 17th Maccabiah Games truly lived up to their slogan, "The Moment to Love." This event marked a significant milestone in Maccabiah history, featuring record-breaking participation, world-class sportsmanship, and an unforgettable celebration of Jewish unity. 

Led across the new 15th Maccabiah Bridge by the massive 533-person Australian delegation, an astonishing 7,326 athletes from 55 countries were welcomed by President Katsav, Prime Minister Sharon, and an ecstatic crowd at Ramat Gan National Stadium. Windsurfer Gal Fridman, Israel’s first-ever Olympic gold medalist, lit the flame, while the spectacular artistic program dazzled with a whirlwind of color, movement, and Jewish spirit.

Some of the highest-level sports events ever staged in Israel included cricket, fencing, judo, karate, rugby, and triathlon, featuring many Olympic medalists and world-class athletes. Gymnastics delivered a stunning gala performance, Bryan Goldberg (USA) broke multiple records in the pool, and Israeli golfer Andy Nemiroff clinched gold with a staggering 279. In field hockey, the exceptionally well-coached Dutch women’s team dominated the competition, while world-class chess player Judit Polgár (Hungary) showcased her brilliance in a marathon of simultaneous games.

With the Israeli government officially declaring 2005 as the "Year of the Maccabiah" and hosting numerous cultural events, media interest—especially online—was exceptionally high. Nearly 2,000 enthusiastic Maccabiah volunteers contributed to the success of the Games, assisting the Organizing Committee and ensuring an unforgettable experience for all participants.

Israel’s European judo champion, Arik Ze’evi, played a key role in the emotional Closing Ceremony at Sultan’s Pool in Jerusalem, marking the proud conclusion of an unforgettable Seventeenth Maccabiah. 

Notable Athletes, Winners, and Sports Achievements:

• Bryan Goldberg (USA) broke multiple records in the pool.

• Israeli golfer Andy Nemiroff clinched gold with a staggering 279. 

• In field hockey, the exceptionally well-coached Dutch women’s team dominated the competition.

•  World-class chess player Judit Polgár (Hungary) showcased her brilliance in a marathon of simultaneous games.