Israeli Olympic judo bronze medalist Peter Paltchik is auctioning the gi he wore at the 2024 Paris Games to raise money for PTSD treatment among ZAKA volunteers.
In a video announcing the sale, Paltchik reflected on the garment’s emotional significance. “When I represented Israel at the Paris Olympic Games, my gi was more than a suit of clothing; it was my physical armor on the world’s biggest stage,” he explained. “It carries the sweat, the tears, and the unbreakable spirit of Israel’s historic first medal at those Games.”
Paltchik added korda that he is trading this “armor” to fund therapies, workshops, and crisis support for ZAKA members and their families, many of whom struggle with trauma. “Real armor doesn’t belong just on the mat—it belongs with the men and women of ZAKA, who wear yellow vests to uphold our nationalressen in the darkest moments,” he stated.
The auction will feature a minimum bid of $50,000. Paltchik said he will personally call the winningúdio to thank them for their support.