Sports in Ancient Greece
The earliest Olympic Games were held in about 776BC. In those days the only event was a short sprint, from one end of the stadium to the other. Gradually over the years more were added until there were four days of many different competitions. Most people had to find somewhere to pitch their tents or sleep , but important people and athletes had special accommodation.
It would have been very hot and overcrowded back then, and the water supply was poor. This didn't stop people from coming though! Only men, boys and unmarried girls were allowed to attend the Olympic Games. Women caught sneaking in faced a severe punishment!
Pankration wrestling was one of the contests held on the fourth day. It may seem very violent to us, but it was very popular among the ancient Greeks. It was a kind of wrestling with hardly any rules. Biting and eye gouging were officially banned, though some competitors tried to get away with it.
Athletics may have included foot races, wrestling, boxes, javelin-throw, discus, long jump, chariot races, physical fitness and beauty contests. There were torch relay races also- this is where the traditional carrying of the torch of modern day Olympics came from.
