Israeli bowler Itai Rigbi says his performance at the World Indoor Bowls Championships with playing partner Amnon Amar was a “victory for sport”, even though their participation seemed in doubt.
Tournament organizers last month lifted the ban on Israeli players, imposed as a result of a campaign by pro-Palestinian groups.
On Friday, on the opening day of the competition in Norfolk, Rigbi and Amar were defeated 2-0 in the pairs tournament by Scots Mark Renwick and Kieran Ward.
Before the match, there were protests in front of the facility.
“Even though we lost today, I think it’s a victory for all of us,” Rigbi said.
“It is a victory for sport, the values of sport and the spirit of sport. Even though we lost to players who were much better than us, I feel that the sport won.
“Of course the initial decision wasn’t very satisfactory for me, but then it was a 48-hour rollercoaster and the decision was corrected. I’m glad that the final decision was right and now I’ve dealt with it, it’s okay.”
The pair intend to stay on to support compatriot Daniel Alomin in the singles tournament.
“The World Bowls Tour (WBT) welcomed us warmly. We had a nice conversation with other players. There is a very sporty atmosphere and a very sporty event. What happened outside is beyond my understanding,” Rigbi added.
“That’s how it should be. We compete because we are competitors. We are here to promote the values of sport and that is what we do.”
WBT said the trio would be able to compete after “significant additional safety measures” were put in place.
Pro-Palestinian groups accused Israel of committing apartheid against Palestinians and called for a ban on its athletes under the 1977 Gleneagles Agreement – originally signed to exclude South Africa.
Israel vehemently denies apartheid accusations.
Since the war between Israel and Hamas broke out 15 months ago, there have been incidents of its impact on sports.
The Palestinian Football Association pressured world governing body FIFA to ban Israel from international soccer, even though Israeli athletes have competed on major stages including the Olympics and Wimbledon.
World Bowls Tour board member Jason Parkinson told BBC Sport this period has been “difficult” but added: “Ultimately this is a sporting event and everyone is here to play sport.
“People can always express their opinion. In my opinion, what we did was right.”
The championship will last until January 26.
