ATHENS 1896 - Games of the I Olympiad

The revival of the ancient Olympics attracted athletes from 14 nations, with the largest delegations coming from Greece, Germany, France and Great Britain. On 6 April 1896, the American James Connolly won the triple jump to become the first Olympic champion in more than 1,500 years. Winners were awarded a silver medal and an olive branch.

The German athlete Carl Schumann finished in the top five events of three different sports. The people of Athens greeted the Games with great enthusiasm. Their support was rewarded when a Greek shepherd, Spyridon Louis, won the most popular event, the marathon.

Dates: March 25- April 3
Participating N.O.C.: 13
Number of Sports: 9
Number of Events: 43
Number of Athletes: 245
Men: 245
Women: -
Opening: King George 1st of Greece