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Famous Olympic Quotes
The first Olympic games was established in 776 BC at Olympia, Greece. In honor of Zeus, Greek city states gather to one place, wars were halted, and the claim as for who are the best athletes whom gods favor in all of Greece is set as the cornerstone of honor and unity.
Today, the Olympic tradition has spread all over the world with over 200 countries participating, proving that the Olympic flame is bigger and brighter than ever.
The Olympics will not be as renowned and celebrated as it is, however, without the participation of the athletes. What motivates these athletes to join this prestigious event that only happens once every 4 years. Fame, notoriety, fortune, and honor for their country.
Here are the top 10 famous olympic quotes from people that have become part of the Olympics who have inspired the new generation of athletes in today’s Olympic event.
“The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not winning but taking part; the essential thing in life is not conquering but fighting well.”
--Pierre de Coubertin (founder of modern Olympic Games)
“I believe in God. He is the secret of my success. He gives people talent.”
-- Noureddine Morceli (Algerian athlete in the 1996 Summer Olympics)
“When anyone tells me I can't do anything, I'm just not listening any more.”
-- Florence Griffith Joyner (American athlete, 1988 Summer Olympics)
“The first thing is to love your sport. Never do it to please someone else. It has to be yours.”
-- Peggy Fleming (American figure skater, 1968 Winter Olympics)
“The Olympics remain the most compelling search for excellence that exists in sport, and maybe in life itself.”
--Dawn Fraser (Australian swimmer, 3-time winner of Olympic Games.)
“The important thing in life is not victory but combat; it is not to have vanquished but to have fought well.”
--Pierre de Coubertin
“There can be distractions, but if you're isolated from the heart of the Games, the Olympics become just another competition.”
--Mary Lou Retton (American gymnast, 1984 Summer Olympic Games)
“To be part of that winning team and standing in the ring for the final decision to be announced is something I will live with for the rest of my life.”
--Graham Cheney (Australian Boxer)
“It is the inspiration of the Olympic Games that drives people not only to compete but to improve, and to bring lasting spiritual and moral benefits to the athlete and inspiration to those lucky enough to witness the athletic dedication”.
--Herb Elliott (Australian middle-distance Runner, world record holder in the 1.500 meter race (1958-67) and the mile race (1958-62)
“For athletes, the Olympics are the ultimate test of their worth.”
--Mary Lou Retton