How the Olympic ideas changed since the first modern Olympics

AS and A Level Physical Education (Sport & Coaching)

In the first modern held at Athens in 1896, the ultimate dream of the Olympics, finally re-created by Baron Pierre de Coubertin. The Olympic motto reflects the dedication of the athletes as they take part in the games. In the oath they promise to compete "in the true spirit of sportsmanship, for the glory of the sport and the honor of our teams." The Olympics were set up for people to compete for the love of their sport and not for money and sponsorship. While few qualify to participate in this international competition, many athletes ‘strive to imitate the example of dedication, cooperation and enthusiasm exhibited by the competitors.’

Up until 1984 the modern Olympics, was set up and held without any major sponsorship and funding, but in Los Angeles, USA 1984, it made a massive $215 000 000 profit, the first to ever make profit. Major sponsors including McDonalds, Coca Cola, Kodak and Panasonic pay millions of pounds to have their company name and logo put up around the stadium and displayed on T.V. at the most popular viewing times.

“The important thing in these Olympics is not so much winning as taking part. The important thing in life is not the victory but the battle” ...