From ancient Olympia to Paris 2024: The evolution of the Olympics

As a former athlete who lives and breathes sport, I felt a profound connection to the timeless celebration of athleticism, humanism, and unity that has transcended over a millennium.

My recent visit to Olympia to represent the National Olympic Academy, Olympic Council of Malaysia at the 30th International Seminar for post-graduates at the International Olympic Academy not only immersed me in the rich history of the Games but also provided an impactful contrast to the excitement for the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics Games.

Walking through the remnants of the ancient stadium where ancient Greek athletes once competed for honour and glory was a surreal experience.

The ancient Olympic Games, known as the Panhellenic Games, were held every four years at Olympia to honour the king of the Greek Gods, Zeus. It played a significant role in Greek culture and religion.

Only male athletes competed in limited events like running, wrestling, boxing, and chariot racing, pushing the physical limits of their time.

Victors were heroes who received sacred olive wreaths as prizes. Competitors who cheated paid a hefty fine.

The sanctuary featured a row of Zeus statues – the so-called Zanes – financed by these fines.

I also visited Paris as a scholarship recipient from the French Embassy in Malaysia and Campus France to the Young Scientific Talent Residence, organised by Universcience in partnership with the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs.

I found similarities in the Paris Olympics 2024 preparation as the organisers strive to uphold the same principles in a vastly different era.

The values from ancient times continue to shape the essence of the Olympic Movement. Today, excellence is defined not only by physical prowess but also by inclusivity and diversity.

The focus on inclusivity, with increased participation of female athletes and athletes with disabilities, reflects a commitment to uphold the Olympic spirit in a changing world.

The Paris 2024 Olympics will leverage technological advancements to enhance the spectator experience and ensure the integrity of the Games.

The emphasis on fair play and sportsmanship remains as crucial as ever in preserving the true spirit of Olympism.

The rituals may have evolved, but their essence remains. The opening and closing ceremonies, music, and dance performances showcase national pride and cultural heritage.

The torch relay, an echo of the ancient flame, carries the Olympic spirit across continents, uniting diverse peoples globally.

Perhaps the most enduring legacy of the Olympics is its ability to foster unity and peace.

The Games served as a truce between warring Greek city-states, fostering a sense of unity and cultural exchange.

Athletes from warring factions competed on equal footing, their athletic prowess transcending political divides and fostering a sense of shared humanity.

As I reflect on my journey from Olympia to Paris 2024, it is clear that the Olympic spirit has endured and evolved.

The ancient values of excellence, unity, and fair competition continue to shape the goal and aim of the Games, while the modern Olympic Movement adapts to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

From the sacred grounds of Olympia to the iconic city of Paris, the Olympics remain a celebration of the human spirit, a testament to the enduring power of sport to inspire, unite, and transcend the boundaries of time and culture.

Ultimately, the Olympics is not just about athletic feats or record-breaking performances. It is about the enduring spirit of competency, inspiration, the power of unity, and the unwavering pursuit of progress.

As we celebrate the 2024 Paris Olympics and look towards future Games, let us remember the immeasurable values – friendship, respect, and excellence – that have guided the Olympic movement for over a century.

Let the Olympic flame inspire us to reach for our personal best, bridge cultural divides, and build a brighter future for generations to come.

Daphne Ng is a former national badminton player, co-founder, and chief coach of Duo Sparks Badminton Academy Malaysia, a sports consultant, and a post-graduate student majoring in sports science and sports psychology.

The views expressed here are the personal opinion of the writer and do not necessarily represent that of Twentytwo13.

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