Israel’s still in the Olympics. Really
Despite cries of failure, country still has slim medal hopes riding on rhythmic gymnasts, marathoner
Aaron Kalman is a former writer and breaking news editor for the Times of Israel
Israel’s medal hopes may be dead in the water, but contrary to popular sentiment, the country is still harboring a chance for a podium finish on the mat.
Israeli politicians and media pundits have decried Israel ending the Olympic Games without a medal, but a team of blue-and-white clad rhythmic gymnasts have yet to take the floor; and the country’s marathoner still hasn’t had a chance to lace up.
The seven rhythmic gymnasts are set to perform on Thursday, with Neta Rivkin entering the all-round competition and the national team of six competing in the team category.
Yet despite this fact, on Wednesday Minister of Culture and Sports Limor Livnat announced she would establish a committee of experts to look into this year’s failure at the Games.
Swimmer Gal Nevo, who returned to Israel after being eliminated in the semifinals of the 200-meter medley, criticized the minister’s announcement. “It’s offensive and inconsiderate to make such statements before everyone finished competing,” he said.
The move came after all the country’s main medal hopes, including judoka Arik Zeevi and windsurfers Lee Korzits and Shahar Tzuberi, failed to medal.
While the rhythmic gymnasts may be dark-horse candidates for the podium, they should not be written off.
In 2011, the team won the Bronze medal at the World Championships, and they are planning on reaching the podium at London as well.
On Monday, marathoner Zohar Zemiro will run in the Olympic marathon, when Israel’s participation in the Games will truly end, whether in first place or last.
The Times of Israel Community.