Ancient Greece is a land of myths, heroes and great ambitions. It was here, amidst majestic temples and the many-headed Olympus, that the foundations were laid for what would later become a symbol of global sporting unity – the first Olympic Games.
A time of legends: the history of the first Olympic Games and their deep roots
The origins of the Olympic spirit began in ancient Greece. There was an idea of gods to please and people who strove to become worthy of this divine honour. The first competitions were held in the city of Olympia, in a sanctuary dedicated to Zeus, and had a sacred significance. At a time when myths and legends ruled the world, man strived to prove that he was capable of surpassing himself, and this aspiration resulted in the first Olympic Games. They became an integral part of Greek life – a place where not only the strongest were revealed, but also showed respect for the opponent, for the very process of struggle.
There were other interesting nuances: the competitions were held every four years and lasted five days. The winners of the competitions were considered national heroes, they were celebrated, and sometimes even statues were erected in their honour. The events symbolised unity, and even in times of war, a sacred truce, the ekehiria, was signed during the Olympic Games, allowing all participants to arrive and return home safely.
How it all began: the ancient Olympic Games and their first participants
The very first Olympic Games were unique. Only free Greek men could participate. These men trained for years and devoted their lives to showing their skills in running, discus and javelin throwing, wrestling and other disciplines. The first participants were not just athletes, they were considered something between heroes and humans. Athletes performed naked, emphasising their unity with nature and the integrity of the competition.
List of disciplines:
- One-stage running (192 metres). The participants, naked and barefoot, competed on special tracks in the stadium. The winner was considered something of a national hero, and it was his name that was recorded in the annals of history.
- Disc throwing. It was made of bronze or stone, and participants tried to throw it as far as possible. This discipline required not only physical strength but also precise technique.
- Javelin throwing. It was light and designed for throwing distance. Participants used special leather straps to improve grip and distance. The winners demonstrated incredible coordination and balance.
- Wrestling was a discipline that allowed athletes to show their physical power and tactical skill. The goal was to force the opponent to touch the ground with his shoulders or to push him out of a confined area.
- Pentathlon. The Pentathlon included five events: running, discus throwing, javelin throwing, long jumping and wrestling. Pentathlon was considered the most prestigious competition, as it required an athlete to master all skills at once.
- Long jumps in antiquity were somewhat unusual – athletes used special weights (gymnets), which they waved during the jump to give themselves more momentum.
- Fist fighting (pygmachia). Fights were fought until one of the opponents gave up or was knocked out. Athletes bandaged their hands with leather strips, which made the blows even more painful.
- Chariot races. One of the most spectacular competitions held on the hippodrome. It involved chariots drawn by four horses. The competition was characterised by a high level of danger, as accidents and injuries were common.
- Long-distance running (dolichos). Athletes ran several kilometres through heat and dust.
Hundreds of athletes from various Greek city-states such as Athens, Sparta and Corinth took part in the first competitions. Each discipline was a challenge requiring the utmost dedication, and participation was considered a great honour and an indicator of outstanding physical qualities.
The famous athlete Milon of Croton, a six-time OI winner, became a legend not only for his strength but also for his determination. He was said to have trained by lifting a small calf every day until it grew into a full-grown bull. This philosophy of striving and overcoming is the quintessence of what the first Olympic Games meant.
Athens 1896: the return of a great tradition
After more than a thousand years of neglect, the idea of reviving the OM shone with new colours thanks to one man – Pierre de Coubertin. The French aristocrat was obsessed with bringing the spirit of unity and fair competition back to the world. Inspired by ancient traditions, Coubertin began his journey to popularise the idea of international competition, where the main goal was not to win at all costs, but to participate and strive for excellence.
The first modern Olympics took place in Athens in 1896 and it was a huge event, with 241 athletes from 14 countries taking part. The atmosphere of the competition was incredible as spectators flocked from all over Europe to witness the revival of a great tradition. While in ancient Greece the games were about honouring the gods, in 1896 the main idea was internationality and the pursuit of peace through sport.
The legacy and significance of the first Olympic Games for the world
The significance of the first Olympic Games goes far beyond ordinary sporting competitions. The Games laid the foundation for an international sporting movement where respect, equality and the pursuit of excellence were the core values. The Games have inspired and continue to inspire millions of people around the world to follow their dreams and overcome obstacles.
The Olympic Oath, first recited in 1920, is a direct legacy of ancient vows of honesty and respect for competitors. It is a reminder that the first Olympic Games established a tradition that lives on today. The principle of “participation, not victory, is what counts” still resonates in the hearts of millions of athletes around the world.
Conclusion
The first Olympic Games were the beginning of a great tradition that has endured through the ages and become a symbol of unity, peace and the pursuit of excellence. They are a reminder that, regardless of time and circumstance, the desire to be better and the willingness to overcome ourselves is what makes us human.
Today, as the Olympic Games attract thousands of participants and millions of spectators, it is safe to say: their legacy lives on and will continue to inspire generations to come.
Surfing, a symbol of freedom and harmony with nature, originated in Hawaii more than a thousand years ago. In the early 20th century, it began to gain popularity in California and Australia. It first entered the Olympic programme as a new sport at the Tokyo 2020 Games. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, the competition took place off the coast of Tahiti, where the waves reached a height of 3 to 4 metres – exciting conditions for the athletes. The competition consisted of short and long rides and each surfer demonstrated their technique in different types of waves.
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