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"Shalom to you all.
I am pleased to meet the Olympic Delegation, which brought Israel the biggest accomplishments in the history of the Olympic Games.
You brought pride and joy to all of us. I must say, for me it was a rare opportunity to watch television during your appearances.
My workdays are extremely long, and the opportunity to watch television is limited, but here I must say that I watched. I watched and was very proud of your performances.
Even beyond the medals, the Delegation had wonderful and impressive accomplishments. I am, of course, aware that every citizen of Israel expected that each of you would return from the Olympics with a medal. We know that this is impossible. However, there were very wonderful and impressive accomplishments.
I believe that your very presence and participation in the Olympics is, in and of itself, a great accomplishment.
The President spoke and explained your importance, not only in these achievements, but also in creating an educational atmosphere for youth, and giving them the desire to be like you. Certainly, your performances and this kind of attention must bring about better, more sociable behavior, with regard to all the harmful phenomena that exist in society today. And I am certain that after Beijing in 2008, there will be even better accomplishments.
It was impossible not to envy you when we watched. I do not think I could compete against Gal Friedman, it was not my field…
President Katsav: “You could have competed against Arik Zeevi…”
Prime Minister Ariel Sharon: “I will address that immediately… In contrast with that, as some one who was in the past a Judo instructor… (to Arik Zeevi) I would not want to compete against you. The only area I could compete against you is weight. I am certain I would defeat you…”
I would like to say a word to those who felt hurt.
Usually, the media covers the events and wants to boast about amazing achievements. However, I would like to tell you, to whoever was hurt by such a statement, or from this or that publication, I would like to tell you from personal experience – you must not get upset. Whoever believes in himself will succeed. I tell you this so that you know that whoever believes in himself and works hard will succeed, and will also greatly contribute to the youth in Israel, and to us all.
I wish you all a happy holiday and Shana Tova to you and your families, and to all those who took the time, and worked and helped you – on behalf of us all, thank you.
Thank you.
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