Olympic and Athletic Education

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The ancient Olympic Games  - The organisation of Games - The programme of Games - The athletic events - In honour of the Olympic champions - 
The revival of the Olympic Games


The programme of games

 

During the preparation of athletes in the city of Ilida the Hellanodikes separated them, depending on their age, in categories of (men and teenagers).
Two days before the beginning of the games, the parade with athletes, judges and distinguished persons left Ilida and reached Olympia covering the Sacred Way.

First day
In the morning of the first day the ceremony of oath –taking was held in the building of Chamber of Deputies in front of the statue of Jupiter on behalf of the athletes, their relatives and the judges in order not to break the rules. Then they registered the athletes, they separated them according to the games drew them in pairs or in order of their participation. In the entrance of the stadium the races of messengers and trumpeters were taken place. In the afternoon offerings and oracularities were performed in the sacred Altis. Furthermore philosophers, historians and poets made speeches and various gatherings were organized.

Second day 
In the morning the Hellanodikes and all athletes parade in the stadium where the spectators were gathered. The first game was the stadion (single –course race), then the boys’ wrestling, the boxing and the pankration.

Third day
In the morning armatodromies (two-horse chariot) and the equestrian events were taken place at the Hippodrome. In the afternoon the athletes competed at pentathlon (jumping, discus thro, running, javelin throw, wrestling). In the evening they used to make offerings to honour Pelops and they organized festive dinners.

Fourth day
 On the fourth day all athletes and the Hellanodikes forming a parade left the gymnasium and reached the big altar of Jupiter where 100 animals were offered (hetacomb). After this brilliant ceremony the athletes competed at running, wrestling, boxing and pankration. The last athletic event of the day was the race in armor.

Fifth day
The last day was dedicated to the award ceremony. The Hellanodikes placed the sacred olive tree wreath on the winner’s head at the temple of Zeus. Then all were welcome to participate in the official dinner and the festive celebrations at the prytaneum.

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The ancient Olympic Games  - The organisation of Games - The programme of Games - The athletic events - In honour of the Olympic champions - 
The revival of the Olympic Games


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