Today (Thursday), the Israeli Athletics Association and the Municipality of Jerusalem held an official press conference ahead of the 2024 Grand Slam Winner Jerusalem, a prestigious international competition at the silver level. This is the largest international sports event in the country since October 7th. Despite the complex security situation, about 80 athletes from 24 countries registered for the competition, along with approximately 60 Israeli athletes.
Participants’ Statements:
- Adva Cohen (Maccabi Tel Aviv) expressed her excitement about competing in her hometown, Jerusalem: “I am from Jerusalem and have been living and training in the USA for years, so for me, competing in Jerusalem, at home, where I received all my sporting values, is doubly exciting”.
- Blessing Afrifa (Maccabi Tel Aviv) expressed his excitement to compete again in Jerusalem, saying he feels this is his lucky place: “Of course, my dream is to reach the Olympic Games in Paris and represent my country and my family with honor.”
- Noah Levy (Maccabi Rishon LeZion) said she is excited to compete in such a prestigious competition in the country, especially given the security situation, and hopes for a lot of support from the audience.
Statements from Officials:
- Itzik Larry, CEO of the Municipality of Jerusalem, opened the press conference, saying: “Jerusalem, the sports capital of Israel, is ready for the Grand Slam Jerusalem! Especially during this time, we are excited about the challenge of hosting the international and prestigious competition at the renewed national stadium in Givat Ram.”
- Ami Baran, Chairman of the Israeli Athletics Association, emphasized the importance of holding the competition in Israel and Jerusalem, especially in light of the events of October 7 and the anti-Israel atmosphere in the world: “Holding the competition with about 80 athletes from 24 countries shows that there is hope, and that support for Israel continues.”
- Ariella Rejwan, Deputy CEO of the Municipality of Jerusalem, expressed hope for the recovery of the injured and the return of the hostages, and emphasized the message of unity and hope that the event conveys.
- Meir Bardugo, CEO of the Sports Betting Council, said: “The Toto is happy and proud to be the main and official sponsor of the Grand Slam Winner Jerusalem.” He went on to note the importance of holding an international competition at this time for national and personal resilience, and the role of Israeli athletes as ambassadors of the country.
