Rationalisation and Modern-Day development of Track and Field Athletics Flashcards
What class were the footmen? And who did they compete for?
Lower class servants, for the upper class
What did the footmen do?
Competed as messengers - who could be the quickest footman.
How did the upper class earn money from this?
By wagering on the races
What did the Wenlock Agricultural Reading Society create?
The Olympian class
What was the Olympian class?
The upper classes own set of athletes.
How did the Olympian class aid society?
As it was set to promote moral, physical, and intellectual improvements as there were many rules
Who was the driving force of the Olympian class?
Dr William Penny Brookes
What events did the first olympics consist of?
Football, cricket, running, and hurdles
When was the first game held?
1850
What Olympic traditions did these games have?
Flag bearers, officials, hymns, laurel leaves - they were held in very high regard.
What did Dr William Penny Brookes also campaign for?
Physical education to be on the school curriculum and promoted the benefits of sport.
What led to the growth of athletics?
- Purpose built tracks and facilities
- Many more races set up
- Urban athletic fairs
- More money being invested into NGB’s
Why were class divisions still evident at this time?
Upper/middle class ran for enjoyment, whereas lower class ran to make money.
What was the exclusion clause?
Working class were not allowed to compete/take part - as upper/middle wanted to separate modern athletics from the old corrupt form.
How did the amateurs respond to the exclusion clause?
In 1866, they created the ‘AAC’ (Amateur Athletics club) which only included the gentlemen amateurs.
