Summer Olympic Games

sports · global competition · excellence · tradition

Started in Athens. The very first Summer Olympics happened in 1896 in Athens, Greece, and it was the first time so many countries came together for one giant sports event.

Three medals matter. Athletes who win first place get gold medals, second place get silver, and third place get bronze. This medal system started in 1904 and is still how we celebrate winners today.

Happens every four years. Countries take turns hosting the Summer Olympics, and a new host city gets ready for the Games every four years so athletes all around the world have a chance to compete.

Pierre de Coubertin's dream. A man named Pierre de Coubertin founded the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and brought back the Olympic tradition as a way to bring nations together through sports.

Inspired the Winter Games. The Summer Olympics were so popular and successful that the Winter Olympic Games were created later, giving winter sports their own special competition.