From the Liveblog of
Monday, August 16, 2021
‘You’ve inspired future generations’: Herzog, Bennett fete Olympic delegation
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President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Naftali Bennett welcome Israel’s most successful-ever Olympic delegation in a joint ceremony, congratulating the athletes for their success and thanking them for the pride they brought to the country.
“You made the history that Israeli athletes have dreamed of for years. The anthem was played not once, but twice,” Herzog says.
“Linoy [Ashram], Artem [Dolgopyat], the judo team, Avishag [Semberg] and all the athletes — those who gave everything, those who were so close, and those who gave their whole soul — on behalf of the people of Israel I say thank you. Thank you for the inspiration you gave to future generations and to all our people. Thank you to our stars. You are our heroes and we are very proud of you.”
Herzog also quips that the size of the medal haul could perhaps be attributed to him and Bennett assuming their new jobs.
“The delegation provided us with moments of pride and happiness during a complex time for all of us,” Bennett says. “The Israeli flag was raised over the winners’ podium four times and twice we were privileged to hear the Israeli national anthem, ‘Hatikvah.’ An entire country was moved and wiped away a tear.”
The Times of Israel Community.