Dedicated to the Munich Eleven

American-born basketball player Tal Brody, who made aliyah, lights the Maccabiah torch. He is joined by Esther Shachmorov Roth whose hope of medalling at the 1972 Olympics was thwarted by the massacre at Munich, and Dr. Shaul Landani, Israel walking champion. Eleven torches are lit, one for every slain sportsman, including David Berger, (wrestler) a Maccabiah gold medallist who made aliyah and competed for Israel at those ill-fated Olympics. Abba Eban, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, addresses the participants at closing ceremonies. The first Youth Jamboree is held, where participants mix with their Israeli peers. The first international seminar on Jewish Physical Education and the History of Jewish Sports is held at the Wingate Institute. Maccabi World Union subscribes to the "Jerusalem Program" and approves its affiliation as a Jewish World Organization of non-political character to the World Zionist Organization. Maccabiah Country Club is opened on the grounds of the Maccabiah Village, Kfar Hamaccabiah. Yosef Yekutieli, Father of the Maccabiah Games, lights the torch in Modi’in.

Sports Highlights

Gathering for participants of the FIRST MACCABIAH GAMES (1932) is held. The order “Member of the British Empire” (M.B.E) is bestowed on Lou Rose of Australia in recognition of his dedication to the encouragement of Jewish sport in Australia. Bridge and chess are added as new competitions. New facilities are made available to the athletes including many on kibbutzim.

Sports Highlights