Enthusiasts have revived this other major ancient Greek athletic competition, and it's open to everyone. The competitions are held in the ancient stadium at Nemea, and the judges and other officials wear ancient Greek costumes. Races are divided by gender and by age, and the rich pageantry of the proceedings closely mirror the recorded ancient practices.
The victor in each race is given a palm branch and a ribbon tied around the head, receives a T-shirt and pin and a place at the winner's banquet.
Although some doubters wondered about the wisdom of reviving these Games, they are now so popular that the local economy is feeling a substantial boost by hosting the many international athletes and their families.
The deadline to sign up to participate in the 2008 Games is around May 1st, 2008, but observers can come to join 8-10,000 other spectators at the Games themselves on June 21-22, 2008.
So start training now. Remember, the next Nemean Games won't be until 2012.
The Nemean Games are run by volunteers from the Society for the Revival of the Nemean Games, a group founded by excavators working on the Sanctuary of Zeus at Nemea.
To support or participate in future Nemean Games, send your name, address, and $10 membership dues by check or money order to:
The Secretary
The Society for the Revival of the Nemean Games
P.O. Box 2000
GR-205 00 Nemea
Greece
Tel: (From the US: 011-30) 746-24125
