As we build for the future, nothing can be as inspiring as the words of praise that were showered upon our athletes returning from Athens. The following quotes are a tribute to the fortitude, spirit and inner strength that lay at the core of our athletes’ recent success:

Ariel Sharon, Prime Minister of Israel: “I am sure that in Beijing in 2008 you will turn in a repeat performance and bring back even more medals… Your achievement is first and foremost a personal one, but it is also an Israeli achievement. Thank you, and may you continue to enjoy success in the future.”

Limor Livnat, Minister of Education, Culture and Sport: “I was very excited to see our athletes perform. They are a shining example of willpower and determination.”

Dr. Roni Bolotin, Chairman of the ISAD Professional Committee: “The Israeli delegation of disabled athletes, which I had the honor and privilege to manage, fulfilled our highest aspirations when they returned from the Paralympic games in Athens with remarkable achievements.”

Gal Friedman, Olympic gold medalist in sailing competition in Athens 2004: “The impressive achievement of the three disabled sailors is crucial for Israel. Their victory proves that desire overcomes all obstacles and that rehabilitation through sport is the right approach.”