Ancient Greeks believed that strong bodies and sports pleased the gods .They honored the gods with sporting events and contests . The Olympics began as a festival honor Zeus.
The early olympics were simple. There was only one event. Runners ran a foot race called the stade. Over the years other sports were added.
The games were held every four years.
Messengers traveled all over Greece to announce the dates.
Only Greek citizens could compete. women and slaves could not compete. Each state chose the best athlete. Some were simple shepherds and fishermen and others power ful generals or businessmen.
During Olympics there was a truce. A truce means no fightting during Olympics. Athletes trained for nine months. For a month they trained at Elis near Olympia.
Two days they went on a grand procession.
Athletes participated in events like running,javelin, discus', long
jump,pentathlon,boxing , pankration and horse racing.
Winners were crowned simple olive wreath . When they returned home they were greeted like heroes.
Modern olympics are spectacular but the ancient Olympics were incredible too.
The early olympics were simple. There was only one event. Runners ran a foot race called the stade. Over the years other sports were added.
The games were held every four years.
Messengers traveled all over Greece to announce the dates.
Only Greek citizens could compete. women and slaves could not compete. Each state chose the best athlete. Some were simple shepherds and fishermen and others power ful generals or businessmen.
During Olympics there was a truce. A truce means no fightting during Olympics. Athletes trained for nine months. For a month they trained at Elis near Olympia.
Two days they went on a grand procession.
Athletes participated in events like running,javelin, discus', long
jump,pentathlon,boxing , pankration and horse racing.
Winners were crowned simple olive wreath . When they returned home they were greeted like heroes.
Modern olympics are spectacular but the ancient Olympics were incredible too.
