Story: Lose the Race, Win Your Life -Chanukah - Ep. 414

A true Jewish story of faith, sacrifice, and miraculous survival. In 1967, Olympic cyclist Sam Zeitlin was robbed of victory by antisemitism in America. What happened next transformed his life—and ultimately saved it.

This inspiring Torah teaching follows Sam's journey from defeat to Israel, where brutal 5 a.m. training on Jerusalem's hills prepared him for the 1972 Olympics. But when he discovered the beauty of Shabbat (Sabbath) through a rabbi's invitation, everything changed. Faced with an impossible choice—compete on Shabbat or forfeit his Olympic dream—Sam chose spiritual commitment over worldly glory.

His decision to withdraw caused the entire Israeli cycling team to pull out of the Munich Olympics. Days later, terrorists murdered eleven Israeli athletes. Shabbat observance had saved his life.

This episode explores emunah (faith in God) and bitachon (trust) through one man's remarkable story. Discover how conscious spiritual choice over natural desire can transform apparent defeat into eternal victory. Learn what it means to sacrifice for Torah values and how God's protection works in ways we cannot predict.

For anyone seeking Jewish inspiration, spiritual growth, and true stories of faith. A powerful reminder that our greatest tests often become our greatest gifts.