Druze and Jewish Athletes Qualify for Paralympic Games in Rowing

Saleh Shaheen, a 41-year-old Druze athlete from Shfaram, and Shahar Milfelder, a Jewish athlete, have qualified for the Paralympic Games in rowing, marking a significant milestone for both athletes and the country.

Shaheen, who has been passionate about sports from a young age, faced a life-altering event in 2005 when he was severely injured during a terrorist attack while serving as a security guard at the Karni Terminal. Despite the serious injuries, including damage to his left leg, stomach, and intestines, Shaheen's determination and love for sports remained unwavering.

After his injury, Shaheen spent months in rehabilitation, undergoing surgeries and training to regain his physical abilities. He eventually ventured into paralympic sports, starting with wheelchair basketball and badminton, before finding his calling in rowing. In 2019, he was introduced to paralympic rowing, a sport that demanded rigorous training and dedication.

Shaheen's journey took a pivotal turn when he was paired with Shahar Milfelder, a young woman who had overcome cancer and the removal of part of her pelvis. Together, they formed a mixed duo, training intensively despite the challenges. Their hard work paid off when they advanced to the World Championship and narrowly missed a direct ticket to the Paralympic Games.

However, their perseverance was rewarded during a "last chance" competition, where they secured their place for the Paralympic Games by finishing strong in the final rounds. Shaheen, moved to tears by their achievement, expressed gratitude for the support they received from the Israel Paralympic Committee.

Shaheen and Milfelder's success story is a testament to resilience and teamwork. They train tirelessly, with Shaheen driving 230 kilometers daily for practice, balancing his commitment to sports with running a convenience store. Supported by scholarships and aid, they are now preparing for an extended training camp and their ultimate goal in Paris.

Shaheen aims to raise awareness and promote rowing in Israel, especially in the north. He hopes that their achievement will inspire others and lead to greater recognition of paralympic sports within his community. "Hopefully, after the Olympics, I will work to promote rowing in Israel generally and in the north more specifically," he said.

Reflecting on his journey, Shaheen emphasized the importance of dedication and focus in achieving one's dreams. "My message is that to achieve your dreams, you must stop everything and focus on the goal. It’s true that I had to put my business aside and that it comes at the expense of other things. But this is what it takes to make your dream come true."

Israel continues to celebrate its diverse and determined athletes, breaking barriers and making history on the international stage. Stay updated with their journey by subscribing to our newsletter and sharing this article with your community.