THE OLYMPIC GAMES NOW THEN

Then Long ago a great athletics festival was held at Olympia in Greece. Every 4 years men came from all over Greece to take part.

Now The Olympics take place every 4 years, each time in a different country. Men and women from all over the world take part.

Then From 7 days before the games until 7 days after they ended, all fighting stopped. Even when a battle had been long and fierce, soldiers put down their weapons.

Now The Olympic Games don’t stop wars, but they encourage peace and friendship.

Then Women were not allowed to compete in the games, and only priestesses were allowed to watch them.

Now Women athletes take part in all sports.

Then Athletes had to swear that they had been training for 10 months.

Now Athletes train for years to be ready for the Games.

Then A flame was lit by the sun and kept burning until the end of the Games.

Now A flame is lit by the sun and kept burning until the end of the Games.

Then Athletes in the first Olympic Games didn’t wear any clothes.

Now Athletes wear a special uniform to represent their country.

Then When the Olympic Games first started there was only one event. The men had to sprint along the stadium.

Then Later they took part in discus, javelin, jumping, running and wrestling events,

Then … as well as boxing and chariot racing.

Now Athletes take part in 26 sports in the Olympic Games.

Then Some events were very rough, because there were hardly any rules.

Now Athletes must obey very strict rules.

Then At the ancient Olympics a wreath of olive branches was placed on the winner's head.

Now Athletes win medals. Rebecca Adlington

Then After the games, the athletes cleaned themselves by rubbing oils over their bodies. They scraped off the oil, sweat and dirt with a metal tool.

Now Athletes take showers after competing.

Then Special coins were made to celebrate each Games.

Now Special mascots are designed to help us remember each Games.

Glossary Festival – event, celebration Celebrate – have fun, party Mascot - lucky charm, souvenir