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The Olympic Games
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Every four years from 776 BC the cities of Greece forgot their quarrels and sent their best athletes to compete at games held in honour of Zeus at Olympia. Thousands of spectators came, too. There were all kinds of running and horse races and competitions. Although the prizes were only wreaths of olive branches, there could be no greater honour than to win at Olympia and the winners were welcomed back with pride to their home cities.
(A) WRESTLING
Wrestling was popular and could be won by throwing your opponent three times or by forcing him to surrender.
(B) RACE-IN-ARMOR
The race-in-armour was introduced in 520 BC It acted as a reminder of the importance of military training.
(C) JAVELIN
Javelins could be used in war and so this sport was encouraged. A narrow strip of leather was wrapped around the javelin to help launch it.
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Previous:
Back
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Book:
The Greeks
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Section:
Spotlight on Ancient Greeks
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Chapter:
The Olympic Games
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