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The Maccabiah is Maccabi World Union's flagship endeavor, the largest international Jewish-Zionist event and the world's 3rd largest sports event after the Olympics and the World University Games.
Maccabiah 2005 is the seventeenth in this famous series of sports festivals held in the country since 1932, staged every 4 years since 1953. The Maccabiah connects the people of Israel with the thousands of participating Diaspora athletes, and many visitors make aliyah (immigration to Israel) as a result.
An Organizing Committee is responsible for planning and arranging the event, with tournaments and competitions organized by Israeli Sports Associations. Internationally-qualified referees and officials ensure high standards and fair play, and training and competition venues are selected in accordance with international standards.
On 11th the Games will be officially declared open by President Katsav at a spectacular Opening Ceremony in Ramat-Gan National Stadium, in the presence of the Prime Minister and 40,000 spectators, broadcast live by Israel Television, and via Internet to Jewish Communities worldwide. Maccabiah 2005 is the largest ever in this famous series of sports festivals, with about 7000 athletes from 55 countries competing in 33 sports disciplines. Hundreds of volunteers participate in the effort to provide high standards of accommodation and service. The athletes will enjoy the experience of touring Israel, and participate in workshops on Jewish-Zionist themes.
Special emphasis is placed on competitions and activities for 1400 Junior Maccabiah (15-18 year old) athletes. During May-June, sports competitions in a Children's TV Channel "Kids Maccabiah" for 9-12 year olds aim to introduce Israeli youngsters and their families to Maccabiah values.
Maccabiah 2005 Organizing Committee
