Olympia and the thrill of the Games

Driving further into the southwestern inland of Greece, through many groves of olive trees, you will come upon the town of Olympia. I think there are few peoples in this world that do not know the word “olympic” and from whence it came. This was the very first location of the very first Olympic Games in 776 BC. Wars were halted for three months in order to perform in them. People came from all over the world to compete and witness them. They were world renowned and the ancient Greeks participated as a duty. As a citizen, you would be proud to take part and you would be celebrated for doing so. Nudity was accepted and considered a representation of pride and excellence. Sports were a part of the religion to satisfy the gods and Zeus was the chief god of the games.  As you wander through this vast park filled with ancient building stones, try to picture these grounds bustling with life and sport. Many buildings may be in ruins, but the energy is still alive, and I can feel it especially when entering the stadium. If you fancy yourself a competitor, take a photo at the starting block, ready to sprint and feel what those olympians experienced millennia ago.