Flowers

According to historical records, the first ancient
Olympic Games can be traced back to 776 BC.

They were dedicated to the Olympian gods and
were staged on the ancient plains of Olympia.

They continued for nearly 12 centuries,
until Emperor Theodosius decreed in 393 A.D.
that all such "pagan cults" be banned.

and at Victory Ceremonies

The Olympic victor received his first awards
immediately after the competition. Following the announcement of the winner's name by the herald,

a Hellanodikis (Greek judge) would place a palm
branch in his hands, while the spectators
cheered and threw flowers to him.

Red ribbons were tied on his head and
hands as a mark of victory.

The official award ceremony would take place on the last day of the Games, at the elevated vestibule
of the temple of Zeus. In a loud voice,

the herald would announce the name of the
Olympic winner, his father's name, and his homeland.

Then, the Hellanodikis placed the sacred olive tree wreath, or kotinos, on the winner's head.