Panathenaic Stadium

This morning we got up early and walked to a place called the Zappeion Hall. (More on that in a few days.) It took a while to find the location because Google maps likes to play tricks and the entrance is actually on the opposite side of the building not facing the street. Odd? I think so.

Our plan was to visit the original Olympic stadium. But first we met up with a professional water polo player from Athens who taught us about the history of the Olympics.  

The goal of the original Olympics was to achieve fitness of mind and body. It was about fair play and sportsmanship - participation by amateurs to do your best was the goal.

Rumour has it that men performed naked so nobody could disguise themselves. (Like a mom sneaking in to see her son compete, for example.)

Before we went to the Olympic stadium, our guide took us to a public gym to let us try our hand at some of the original Olympic events. First she told us to jog around the building. Clara and I walked/jogged (more walk than jog) and I was delighted that I actually could jog a bit with no ankle pain. Yay me!

Then we got down to business and tried some of the ancient events. Not naked.

Clara was the best wrestler

Rik was the best at discus.

I had bad form at everything but tried to participate.

Long jump

Shot put

After listening intently and practicing, we got to practice and compete. 

After the fun, we headed to the Panathenaic Stadium. It's impressive -- completely made out of marble.

Rik and Clara, seated at the marble thrones set up for royalty. 

Running around the track. (I couldn't because someone had to be the official photographer. 😍)

We are all winners because we get to be there. 

I'll have to add more tomorrow. I'm falling asleep on the couch. Zzzz