The Ancient Olympics

The Ancient Olympics were very old sports games in Greece. They started in 776 BC, more than 2,700 years ago. The games were held every four years in a place called Olympia. People came from all over Greece to watch. The games honored the king of the Greek gods, Zeus.

The Games

The first Olympics had just one event, a short running race. Later, more events were added. There was wrestling, boxing, long jump, and chariot racing. There was even a tough sport called pankration that mixed boxing and wrestling. Only men and boys could take part in the games.

Winners and Prizes

Winners did not get gold medals like today. Instead, they got a crown made of olive leaves. They became heroes in their hometowns. Some had statues made of them. Cities even stopped their wars during the Olympics so people could travel safely. The ancient games lasted for almost 1,200 years.

Fun Facts

• Athletes in the ancient Olympics did not wear any clothes when they competed.
• The games were held every four years, just like today.
• The modern Olympics started again in 1896 after being gone for a long time.

Did You Know?

A runner named Leonidas of Rhodes won 12 Olympic races in a row, a record that stood for over 2,000 years.