Notes

The Games and Religion The Olympic Games were closely linked to the religious festivals of the worship of Zeus , but they were not an integral part of a religious ceremony . Indeed , they had a secular character and aimed to show the physical qualities and evolution of the performances accomplished by young people , as well as encouraging good relations between the cities of Greece . According to specialists , the Olympic Games owed their purity and importance to religion . The Games The ancient Olympic Games were initially a one - day event until 684 BC , when they were extended to three days . In the 5th century B.C. , the Games were extended again to cover five days . The ancient Games included running , long jump , shot put , javelin , boxing , pankration and equestrian events . All free male Greek citizens were entitled to participate in the ancient Olympic Games , regardless of their social status . Married women were not allowed to participate or watch the games but unmarried women had their own games . During the celebration of the Games , an Olympic Truce was enacted so that athletes could travel from their countries to the Games in safety . The ancient stadium in Olympia could accommodate more than 40,000 spectators , while in the surrounding areas there were auxiliary buildings which developed gradually up until the 4th century B.C. and were used as training sites for the athletes or to house the judges of the Games . Victory Ceremonies The first Olympic champion listed in the records was Koroibos of Elis , a cook , who won the sprint race in 776 B.C. The Olympic victor received his first award immediately after the competition . Following the announcement of the winner's name by the herald ( messenger ) , a Hellanodikis ( Greek judge ) would place a palm branch in his hands , while the spectators cheered and threw flowers on him . Red ribbons were tied on his head and hands as a mark of victory . The official award ceremony would take place on the last day of the Games , at the elevated vestibule of the temple of Zeus . In a loud voice , the herald would announce the name of the Olympic winner , his father's name , and his homeland . Then , the Hellanodikis placed the sacred olive tree wreath , or kotinos , on the winner's head . Rules of Ancient Olympics The participants should be free born Greeks