Here are a few facts about the Olympic Games that you may not know.
Every four years (barring a global pandemic of course), nations of the world gather and root for athletes representing their countries.
The first modern Olympics were held in Athens, Greece, and since 1896 the Games have been hosted by 19 countries.
The Olympic symbol is five interlocking rings on a white background, representing unity across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Oceania, and Europe.
Every two years, the Olympic flame is lit in Olympia, Greece, then carried to the host country to light the stadium cauldron at the opening ceremony.
Medals (gold, silver, bronze) were first awarded in 1904; before that, winners received olive wreaths.
The United States has won over 2,800 medals, more than any other country, and swimmer Michael Phelps is the most decorated Olympian with 28 medals.
Originally, the Games were only held in the summer. The Winter Olympics began in 1924. The Olympics began as a summer event, while the Winter Olympics started in 1924. Greece, Australia, France, Great Britain, and Switzerland are the only countries to be represented by athletes in every single summer games.
After a 112 year hiatus, golf made a comeback at 2016 Olympic games. The four new sports in this year’s Olympics are surfing, sport climbing, karate, and skateboarding. In addition, baseball and softball are returning to Olympics for the first time since 2008 due to popularity of those sports in Japan. They will not be included at 2024 games in Paris.
Each Olympic games have a specific motto. This year’s motto is “United by Emotion.”
The host city designs Olympic medals for their games.
The United States is the only country to host the Summer Olympics four times so far and will host again in 2028, including Los Angeles for the third time.
