The 18th Maccabiah Games, the largest sporting event in the history of the State of Israel, will take place from 13-23 July 2009.

With an estimated participation of 5,300 Jewish athletes from 64 countries and 2,000 athletes from Israel.

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The colourful and spectacular opening ceremony will take place in the Ramat Gan Stadium and the closing ceremony will take place in Latrun. The Maccabiah Games, held every four years, is the third largest sporting event in the world after the Olympic Games and the World Student Games.

A festive Gala salute to the Maccabiah Games is to be held for the fi rst time, with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Zubin Mehta and with solo US pianist Murray Perahia at Tel Aviv’s Mann Auditorium in the presence of the President of the State of Israel, Mr. Shimon Peres.

Four central sporting events will be open free of charge to the general public: beach events will be held in Nahariya, Netanya, Herzliya, Ashdod and Ashkelon, with free activities such as ball games on the beach, aerobic exercises guided by professional trainers, a demonstration with ultralight planes, a yacht and sailing exhibition and other varied, fun activities for the whole family.

Two other large scale events will take place on 17 July: a cycling event in Tel-Aviv, with thousands of Maccabiah participants and others expected to take part (bicycles will be available to rent) and the Tiberias Triathlon around the Sea of Galilee, open to professionals and amateurs. A half-marathon will also take place on 21 July in Netanya, with 2.5 and 10km races open to the general public by pre-registration.

Famous names from the world of sport coming to Israel to participate in the 18th Maccabiah Games include American Jewish swimmer Jason Lezak, who won seven medals in three Olympic Games. Argentine football referee Horacio Elizondo, who was the referee for the Final of the World cup tournament in Germany between Italy and France, who will serve as the referee at the football tournament. And Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton who will be the special guest of the British football team and chess Grand Master Boris Gelfand.

_{(Issue July/August 2009)}