Looking back

Entrance to the ancient stadium in Greece

Legend has it that Heracles(Hercules in Roman), son of the mythological God Zeus founded the ancient Games which have today evolved to be the biggest, greatest and most spectacular sporting event of the world.

However, according to written records which are available even today, the ancient Olympic Games are traced back to 776 BC. It was held in Greece with just one event known as the stead with the participation of only men. But, imagine how these ancient Games have fired up the sporting spirit of the people the world over to grow into what it is today; it has embraced virtually the entire world, breaking all barriers, with both men and women participating in hundreds of events.

Stadium at Beijing Olympics

Ideally, the Olympic Games are supposed to unite the world though unfortunately the true spirit of the Games is not kindled in everyone's heart along with the Olympic flame which is lit initially in Olympia, Greece and kept aglow throughout the Games until it's extinguished on the final day of the Games.

No matter in which part of the world the Games are held, we all eagerly look forward to it. Every host country wants to make the Olympic Games an extraordinary event; the opening and closing ceremonies organised by them are unique and breath-taking. In fact, they are the glittering paper and the multi-hued ribbons that wrap-up the tears of joy and the agony of defeat into one unique and exhilarating (exciting and enjoyable) package.

Today we give you some highlights of the Beijing Games and some interesting facts connected with the ancient and modern games for your library of informative data.