First Olympic Games: A Gruesome Greek Myth With A Happy Ending

Synopsis

Pelops, grandson of Zeus, wins the hand of Hippodamia by beating her father, the king, in a chariot race, during which the king is killed. In remembrance, heroes from all over Greece compete in athletic games on the fields of Olympia. Pelops decrees that such games -- known ever since as the Olympic Games -- should be held every four years.