Israel's Olympics judo bronze medalist auctioning equipment to fund ZAKA PTSD treatments

Israeli judo Olympian Peter Paltchik is auctioning the gi he wore during his bronze medal victory at the 2024 Paris Games to support PTSD treatment for ZAKA volunteers. Paltchik, who competed in the -100kg category, described the judo suit as his "physical armor" on the world's biggest stage, carrying the sweat, tears, and spirit of Israel's historic first medal of those games.

In a video announcing the auction, Paltchik explained his decision to trade his "armor" for therapies, workshops, and support for ZAKA members and their families who are struggling with trauma. He emphasized that "real armor doesn't just belong on the athletic mat. It belongs on the men and women of ZAKA, who wear the yellow vests to protect our national dignity in our darkest hours."

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When I represented our people at the Paris Olympic Games, my gi, this fighting suit, was my physical armor on the world's biggest stage. It carries the sweat, the tears, and the unbreakable spirit of Israel's historic first medal of those games.

The auction has set a minimum bid of $50,000. Paltchik personally committed to calling the winner to express his gratitude. ZAKA is an Israeli non-profit organization that provides rescue, recovery, and forensic identification services, often in the aftermath of disasters and attacks.

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Real armor doesn't just belong on the athletic mat. It belongs on the men and women of ZAKA, who wear the yellow vests to protect our national dignity in our darkest hours.