In
Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome they participated in the sprint, javelin toss,
disc toss, wrestling, and long jump. These sports were the precursor to many
olympic events, which athletes still participate in the olympics today. The
winner of any of these events would receive not only money, but also olive
branch crowns, beautiful pots, jars of olives, and would be allowed to choose
who they wanted to marry. These original events differed from the current style
of play in many regards. For instance, mishaps or losers were often treated by
being beaten and ties were often decided by wrestling or fighting to the
death.
Only
men, particularly those who were in good shape, participated in sports. In the
case of the Roman gladiators, many of the participants were slaves. Sports were
largely regarded as entertainment, even the fights to the death to resolve ties
and gladiator battles. However, sports were also heavily religious. The
athletes prayed to and worshipped the gods both before and after the sports.
Those who won were considered to be favored by God.
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