Let the games begin

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We've dropped anchor by a small town, Katakolon, and are taking a bus (of course) about 30 minutes (what's new) ;-) to Olympia where the ancient games took place. There is a small river and a large river and where they converge, 40,000 or so folks converged in about 600BC to 700 AD. The women were not allowed to see the games as the athletes were in the buff. However one woman was the "priestess" of the games and had a special seat (lucky gal) for the events. The women had their own events. This is a remarkable serene and spritual place. Lots of quiet, trees, and birds chirping everywhere. This is absolutely one of my favorite spots of the trip. The winners had statues made of them and the "cheaters" had their names inscribed on busts with the name of their town and their own name so that everyone would be shamed.

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Photos

The Starting Line
Cope and Dave show off their athletic style