Why Do The Olympic Games Matter?

Ahead of Rio 2016, we asked our members, “why do the Olympic Games matter?” Here was our favourite response.

In a time where such terrible things are happening in the world, the question of whether a sports competition is really worth the hype does seem like a valid one.

The short answer is, yes, it does matter, but I understand most humans still need convincing. So, let’s start off with a bit of history about the Olympic Games.

The Olympics originally started in Ancient Greece and included athletic events as well as chariot racing and combat. Back then, the Olympics were of fundamental religious importance as it was held to honour the Greek gods. The games grew throughout the 6th and 5th centuries BC; however, as the Romans rose in power and influence, the event ended in around 400AD.

Throughout the 1700s and 1800s, there were many attempts at restarting the games in France and England, though none were successful. In 1890, the ‘International Olympic Association’ was founded and the first official Olympic games were held in Athens in 1896. Then, in 1912, the Olympic rings that we all know as the face of the games today were designed – to represent the colours of each nation’s flags (well, all the nations competing in 1912).

I list the history to ask, “why has the world fought so hard to keep the Olympic tradition for so long?”

To say it simply, it just brings the world together. Not only does it bring the best athletes of each country to one place, it also brings the fans and viewers together, inspiring a uniting effect in the world.

So, yes the Olympic Games matter, in a world where there are so many terrible and tragic things happening. The Olympic Games are one of the few events that literally brings the whole world together. Hopefully Rio 2016 can bring a little bit of peace during a distressing time.

Congratulations to Megan for winning this writing challenge, answering: Why Do The Olympic Games Matter? Megan wins a $50 Westfield gift card for her submission. For your chance to win, check out our latest writing challenges in our Comps section. Also, be sure to follow this guide on how to win the writing challenge!

Photo: iStock.