OLYMPICS

The Olympics section gives you an insight into the Olympic sports and the Olympic spirit.
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How the First Olympics Worked

Before today's spandex-clad (and some sequined) Olympians set their sights on the gold, silver or bronze, ancient Greeks competed for victory. How did the games begin, and why were the athletes gunning for olive oil?

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  • Game On: Olympics Quiz
    Game On: Olympics Quiz

    Sure, the Olympic Games happen only every four years. But you can brush up on your Olympic knowledge anytime you like with this Olympics quiz. See if you can go for the gold! See more »

  • How a Marathon Works
    How a Marathon Works

    At its most basic level, a marathon is 26.2 miles. But it's also an intense physical and emotional journey. What's the story behind the race and the people who run it? See more »

  • How Competitive Figure Skating Works
    How Competitive Figure Skating Works

    Drama, beauty and intrigue abound among these often pint-sized athletes, compelling millions of people around the world to watch competitive figure skating and anticipate the fierce competition. What exactly is a triple lutz, and how is it scored? See more »

  • How Fencing Equipment Works
    How Fencing Equipment Works

    If you have been watching competitive fencing at the Olympics or in a college match, you know that fencing is an unusual sport, and it uses some very interesting equipment for scoring! Learn the ins and outs of different types of swordsmanship! See more »

  • How Olympic Timing Works
    How Olympic Timing Works

    In timed Olympic events, the difference between gold and silver can come down to a fraction of a second. You won't find that kind of accuracy in your typical wristwatch. Find out about the systems (and back-up systems) that keep Olympic timing honest. See more »

  • How Olympic Torches Work
    How Olympic Torches Work

    The Olympics aren't too far off so get ready! This article chronicles the history of the Olympic torch reveals how it is designed to stay lit through all weather conditions and follows its path from Olympia Greece to the Olympic Games. See more »

  • How Performance-enhancing Drugs Work
    How Performance-enhancing Drugs Work

    It seems as if hardly a day passes without a sports star being busted for using performance-enhancing drugs. Even with the sophisticated random and mandatory drug testing in most sports, a lot of athletes still think taking them is worth the risk. Why is that and how do these drugs really work? See more »

  • How Pole Vaulting Works
    How Pole Vaulting Works

    The pole vault originated in Europe where men used the pole to cross canals filled with water. In this article we will learn a little bit about the history of pole vaulting and then explore the physics of the sport. See more »

  • How the First Olympics Worked
    How the First Olympics Worked

    Before today's spandex-clad (and some sequined) Olympians set their sights on the gold, silver or bronze, ancient Greeks competed for victory. How did the games begin, and why were the athletes gunning for olive oil? See more »

  • In a track meet how are false starts detected?
    In a track meet how are false starts detected?

    When every fraction of a second counts, a false start can completely change the outcome of a race. How are officials quick enough detect a false start? See more »

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