Introduction

The first Olympic runners leapt from the blocks at Olympia in 776 BCE. The winner of the stadion race was a true amateur athlete. His name was Koroibos. He was a cook from Elis. Hippias of Elis recorded Koroibos’ victory, along with the names of the other victors at the first Olympic games. Aristotle, Eratosthenes, Phlegon of Tralleis, and Julius Africanus continued to record the names of Olympic victors over the years. Ancient texts, coupled with archaeological evidence, provide a clear understanding of the ancient Olympic games, including the origin and nature of each event, and the rules and regulations that governed it. Most of the events that challenged ancient Olympic athletes no longer exist. Yet, the competitive spirit, tradition, and honor in athletic achievement resounds from ancient times to present today.