Lenape’s Spring Track and Field season is well underway. The team has participated in various meets, such as the Don Danser Relays, Cherokee’s Fast Times, and several dual meets. But let’s take a step back: What are the origins of the sport? And how was it popularized?

Ancient History

The origins of track and field can be traced to the first Olympic Games held in Ancient Greece in 776 B.C. The Olympic Games were created as part of a religious festival in honor of Zeus, the king of the Greek gods and goddesses.  The only event at these Games was the stadion, a sprinting race of approximately 200 meters, the length of the ancient Olympic stadium. Coroebus won this race, making him the first Olympic champion. As more Games were held, new events were added, including more sprint races, long jump, discus, shot put and javelin. These events are still held in the sport today.

Modern Day

Despite being thousands of years old, track and field became popular in the 1860s. Cambridge and Oxford University held the first university track meet in 1864. Then, England had its first national championships for men in 1866. The winners of these events did not receive financial compensation, setting a precedent that still holds in the Olympic Games today. 

After momentum for track and field began to grow in England, it spread to the United States, with the first collegiate meets being held in 1873. The Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) was founded to govern the sport in 1888. Finally, the modern Olympic games were first held in 1896, with track and field being one of the participating sports.

Conclusion

Track and field is rooted in ancient history and has grown into one of the most popular sports in the world. It will continue to be a testament to human athleticism and endurance for years to come.