The First Modern Olympic Games – A2 English Reading
The first modern Olympic Games, Athens 1896. Wikimedia Commons.
A2 English reading comprehension about the first modern Olympic Games in Athens in 1896. Read the passage, answer five questions, then use the Speed Reading tool to practise fluency.
The ancient Olympic Games were held in Greece for centuries, but they ended long before the modern world. In the late nineteenth century, French educator Pierre de Coubertin promoted the idea of bringing the Olympic Games back as an international sporting event. The first modern Olympics opened in Athens, Greece, in April 1896. Athletes from 14 countries took part, although the exact number of competitors is debated. All of the competitors were men. Events included athletics, swimming, cycling, gymnastics, fencing, shooting, tennis, weightlifting and wrestling. One of the most memorable events was the marathon, inspired by an ancient Greek story. A Greek runner named Spyridon Louis won the race and became a national hero. The 1896 Games were much smaller than today's Olympics. There was no television, athletes did not arrive from nearly every country, and many modern sports were absent. However, the event was considered a success and helped establish the Olympic movement. The Games later grew into one of the largest international sporting events in the world. Women first competed at the Olympics in 1900.
