Athletics – History and Origins

This episode explores the ancient and modern origins of athletics, one of humanity’s oldest forms of organized sport. Beginning in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, athletics found its spiritual home in Ancient Greece, where the first Olympic Games in 776 BCE introduced footraces and other core events. Revered for promoting virtue and physical excellence, these games laid the groundwork for modern competition.

After a decline during the Middle Ages, athletics resurged in 19th-century Britain through school competitions and codified rules. The revival of the Olympic Games in 1896 marked a turning point, making track and field a global phenomenon. Over time, the sport diversified as nations worldwide embraced it, producing iconic athletes and global stars. Governing bodies like World Athletics now oversee international competitions, including the World Championships and the Olympic Games.

Athletics remains a universal sport—its simplicity and accessibility continuing to inspire and unite people around the world.