FIRST Olympics

The 2008 Beijing Olympics (China) was a great success. But did you know where were the FIRST Olympic Games held?

The FIRST Olympic Games were held in Greece, in a valley between the Rivers Cladeus and Alpheus. According to tradition they were founded in 776 B.C. After that date they were held every four years until they were abolished in A.D. 393 by the Emperor Theodosius I.

At first, the Games lasted for only one day and were for running and wrestling. Later they became a five-day event, and chariot and horse racing were introduced. Well-trained young mean came from all over Greek World to compete for the prizes-crowns of olive leaves. Originally a religious festival held in honour of the Olympian Zeus, the competitors took an oath of honesty and fairness in front of the god’s statue. The athletes took part in a programme of foot racing, boxing, pancratium (all-in-wrestling), chariot racing and pentathlon (five events of long jumping, running, javelin and discus throwing, and wrestling).

At the present time, Olympics have been more prestigious. Every country prepares their athletes for 4 years of constant training for the next Olympics. Next stop…2012 London Olympics. Is Philippines ready for Olympics? No comment…