1912 Stockholm Olympics and the introduction of electronic timing

Lore & Background

The creation of the modern Olympic Games was inspired by the ancient Olympic Games, held in Olympia, Greece, from the 8th century BC to the 4th century AD. Baron Pierre de Coubertin founded the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 1894, leading to the first modern Games in Athens in 1896. The IOC is the governing body of the Olympic Movement, which encompasses all entities and individuals involved in the Olympic Games.

Reader's Guide

The Olympic Movement consists of international sports federations (IFs), National Olympic Committees (NOCs), and organizing committees for each specific Olympic Games. The IOC is responsible for choosing the host city, organizing and funding the Games, and determining the Olympic programme. The Games feature various rituals and symbols, including the Olympic flag, the Olympic flame and torch relay, and opening and closing ceremonies.

Did You Know?

• The ancient Olympic Games were religious and athletic festivals held every four years at the sanctuary of Zeus in Olympia, Greece.
• The most widely accepted inception date for the Ancient Olympics is 776 BC.
• The Summer and Winter Games have been held two years apart since the 1994 Winter Olympics.
• Over 14,000 athletes competed at the 2020 Summer Olympics and 2022 Winter Olympics combined.