1. THE OLYMPIC GAMES
NOW
THEN

2. 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.

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

4. 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.

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

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

7. Now
Women athletes take part in all sports.

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

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

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

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

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

13. Now
Athletes wear a special uniform to represent their country.

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

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

16. Then
… as well as boxing and chariot racing.

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

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

19. Now
Athletes must obey very strict rules.

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

21. Now
Athletes win medals.
Rebecca Adlington

22. 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.

23. Now
Athletes take showers after competing.

24. Then
Special coins were made to celebrate each Games.

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

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