Podcast Summary: Greeking Out from National Geographic Kids
Episode: S10E10 - Ancient Olympics Part Deux
Release Date: June 28, 2024
Host/Author: National Geographic Kids
Description: Oh, Muses! Hear our podcast and allow us to recall some of the greatest stories ever told. Stories of gods and goddesses, monsters, and heroes! Enjoy this kid-friendly retelling of classic ancient Greek myths for the whole family.
Introduction
In the tenth episode of Season 10, titled "Ancient Olympics Part Deux," National Geographic Kids delves deeper into the rich tapestry of ancient Olympic legends. Hosted by Kenny Curtis and Tori Kerr, with contributions from their character Oracle of WiFi, the episode explores the captivating stories of legendary athletes, their triumphs, and the intricate interplay between fame and personal lives in ancient Greece.
Origins of the Ancient Olympics
The episode begins with a brief overview of the origins of the Ancient Olympic Games. Kenny Curtis sets the stage by mentioning that the first known games were held in 776 BCE in honor of Zeus, initially featuring only a single foot race for the first 13 years (00:00).
Tori Kerr recaps the mythical beginnings, highlighting two prominent legends:
- King Pelops: Faced familial curses and perilous challenges, including a treacherous chariot race to win Hippodamia’s hand (02:28).
- Heracles: Credited by some ancient sources with organizing the Games to honor his father after completing his twelve labors.
Oracle of WiFi adds, “The ancient Olympics were just one of four different quadrennial ancient games happening in the Greek world” (02:28), explaining the cyclical nature of these celebrated events.
Theogenes of Thassos: The First Champion
The first major legend discussed is Theogenes of Thassos, Africa’s first Olympic champion. As a child, Theogenes demonstrated extraordinary strength by lifting a statue of a god, nearly incurring severe punishment before being reprimanded by a wise town elder (02:38).
Highlights of his career include:
- Winning 1,400 matches over a 22-year competitive span.
- First to clinch victories in both boxing and pankration during 480 and 476 BCE (04:56).
- Achieving success in 21 other games within the Olympic circuit.
- Winning a long-distance race in Phthia.
Despite his prowess, Theogenes faced resentment, leading to his statue being vandalized. In a twist of fate, the bronze statue fell on the vandal, resulting in his posthumous victory (04:56).
Notable Quote:
"Theogenes was victorious even in death, as the legend goes." – Tori Kerr (04:56)
Diagorous of Rhodes: Champion and Family Man
Next, the podcast introduces Diagorous of Rhodes, a celebrated boxer who not only dominated the Olympic arena but also inspired his children to follow in his footsteps. Diagorous secured multiple victories, earning honors that persist to this day, including having the Rhodes International Airport named after him (06:07).
Key points about Diagorous:
- Won the boxing crown twice in the ancient Olympics.
- His victory was immortalized by the poet Pindar, who chronicled his 20 game wins.
- Proud father who fostered athletic excellence in his sons and daughter.
Tragedy struck when Diagorous died joyously after witnessing his sons' victories, fulfilling an ominous prophecy proclaimed by a spectator (07:25).
Notable Quote:
"Someone in the crowd shouted out to him something like, even if you ascend to Olympus in the afterlife, it probably won't get any better than this." – Tori Kerr (07:25)
Melancholus of Caria: The Defensive Boxer
The episode then shifts focus to Melancholus of Caria, a unique boxer known not for his strength but for his unparalleled defensive strategy. Described as potentially mythical by scholars, Melancholus focused entirely on defense, outlasted opponents through stamina and endurance, and became legendary for his ability to block and evade attacks without striking (13:32).
Melancholus' approach mirrors modern boxing techniques like "clenching," where fighters restrain opponents to control the match (15:17).
Astulos of Croton: The First Free Agent
Astulos of Croton emerges as perhaps the first "free agent" in sports history. A beloved runner who excelled in the Stadion (200 meters) and Dialos (400 meters) races, Astulos initially brought glory to his hometown. However, enticed by Syracuse with promises of fame and fortune, he switched allegiances, leading to his ostracization from Croton (15:46).
Consequences of his decision included:
- Exile from Croton.
- Destruction of his statue.
- Public denouncement by his family.
Oracle of WiFi draws parallels to modern sports, noting how athletes changing teams can stir fan emotions (19:04).
Notable Quote:
"Astulos was a total celebrity in Syracuse, but in Croton, things had changed. He was now Persona non grata." – Tori Kerr (18:38)
Kiniska of Sparta: Pioneering Female Athlete
The most groundbreaking story in this episode is that of Kiniska, a Spartan princess who defied societal norms to become a celebrated chariot racer. In a world where women were largely excluded from the Olympics, Kiniska ingeniously entered the tethripen (four-horse chariot race) by having male representatives handle the competition on her behalf (20:27).
Highlights of Kiniska’s achievements:
- Won the chariot race in 396 BCE and 392 BCE.
- Inspired other women to engage in competitive sports.
- Erected statues in Olympia, honoring her success and paving the way for future female athletes.
Kiniska's legacy continues today, with various sports organizations named in her honor, symbolizing the enduring impact of her pioneering spirit.
Notable Quote:
"Kaniska's achievement began to inspire other female athletes. And as time went on, other women would compete in the chariot races." – Tori Kerr (23:22)
Conclusion
The episode concludes by celebrating these Olympic legends who achieved greatness through talent, ingenuity, and perseverance rather than divine intervention. From Theogenes’ unparalleled victories to Kiniska’s trailblazing role for women in sports, these stories underscore the human spirit's resilience and dedication.
Notable Quote:
"They were regular mortals who found success with talent, ingenuity and a lot of hard work. I’d say these were well-earned Olympic crowns." – Tori Kerr (25:15)
Production Credits
- Hosts: Kenny Curtis and Tori Kerr
- Oracle of WiFi: /Character Contributor/
- Audio Production & Sound Design: Scotty Beam
- Theme Song Composer: Perry Grip
- Subject Matter Expert: Dr. Meredith Safran
- Producers: Emily Burkett and Lori Broda
- Senior Producer: Emily Everhart
Additional Information
- Book Announcement: Parents, "Greeking Out" Book #2 is releasing in September 2024. Preorder here.
- Early Access: Listen to "Greeking Out" early and ad-free on Wondery+.
This comprehensive summary captures the essence of "Ancient Olympics Part Deux," highlighting the fascinating stories of ancient athletes and their enduring legacies. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a young listener eager to learn, this episode offers valuable insights into the world of ancient Greek sports and mythology.