There were no weight categories, opponents were chosen by random.Įquestrian sports was introduced in 680BC. The boxing matches had no time limit and ended if the fighter fell to the ground or one of the fighters held up one or to fingers to show that he admitted defeat. The gloves were made of straps of soft ox-hide. At the same games pentathlon were introduced: Jumping, javelin, running, discus and wrestling, all performed in the same afternoon.Īt the 20th Olympiad in 688 BC one of the most popular Olympic sports even today was introduced: Boxing. In 708 BC, at the 18th Olympiad, when more city states participated, especially the Spartans the first combat sport was introduced: Wrestling. In the 16th Olympiad the long distance race 24 laps started. 370 metres) and in the next Olympiad a 12 laps race.
New running events were added from the 14th Olympics, two laps (approx. The straight “Stade” was changed to an oval racing track and an one-lap sprint was called a “Stadium” which name today is used for a sports arena all over the world. This prize was through the centuries not only an honour for the winner but also for his family and city. The first athlete ever to win an Olympic race was a young cook from Elis, named Koroibus who received a wreath of wild olive leaves as his prize. 185 metres race, the first times on a straight strip of grass. The race was called the “Stade” and was the only event for 13 Olympics. In the beginning there were only one event, a single foot race. The start of the five days of competition was marked by an opening ceremony in which animal sacrifices to Zeus were made in a sacred area known as the Altis.Īfter the events, lavish banquets were held in honour of the winners and more sacrifices were made to Zeus. The officials watched from a specially constructed stand. Hard-packed earth of the rectangular stadium and the hippodrome. Spectators sat on the banks that surrounded the Myths and legends were created about the outstanding feats and accomplishments of these heroes. Olympic athletes were considered heroes and all the little children wanted to be like them. Some competitors even had statues built in their honor. The winners of all Olympic events were considered heroes and were presented with gifts and honors. The winners of these competitions became as famous as the athletes. Musicians, poets, and authors were also given the opportunity to perform their works in public. Strength and speed weren’t the only traits celebrated at the Olympics.
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