Lee Korzits
Lee KorzitsIsrael news photo: Perth2011.com photo

Israeli windsurfer Lee Korzits wins the gold medal at the Perth, Australia World Championship, where the HaTikva anthem was played.

Korzits’ supporters waved  an Israeli flag, and Korzits draped the national flag around her shoulders after the race. “I’m so happy that I can stand behind my country and my flag and hear the national anthem today so far away from my home,” she said.

She beat out two other girls, who are friends and congratulated her on her victory. “When I go onto the water I am like a warrior, even to my friends. On the beach we are like best friends but in the water we are competing,” Korzits said.

Polish competitor Zofia Noceti-Klepacka (POL), said the race was “the hardest of [her] life” but added, “I’m so happy Lee won. She is my best friend. I am happy for her.”  

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with Korzits, who also won the world championship in Spain in 2003. "You have proven your considerable talent,” the Prime Minister said. “I expect to see you at the London Olympics.”

On Friday, Israeli swimmer Gal Nevo won a medal in a contest in Poland, breaking his own record for the 400-meter swim.