Unit2 The Olympic Games-Reading(2)

I see. Earlier you said that athletes are invited from all over the world.

Do you mean the Greek world? Our Greek cities used to compete against each other just for the honour of winning.

No other countries could join in, nor could slaves or women! Nowadays any country can take part if their athletes are good enough.

There are over 250 sports and each on has its own standard. Women are not only allowed, but play a very important role in gymnastics, athletics, team sports and …

Please wait a minute! All those events, all those countries and even women taking part!

Where are all the athletes housed? For each Olympics, a special village is built for them to live in,

a main reception building, several stadiums for competitions, and a gymnasium as well. That sounds very expensive.

Does anyone want to host the Olympic Games? As a matter of fact, every country wants the opportunity.

It's a great responsibility but also a great honour to be chosen. There's as much competition among countries to host the Olympics as to win Olympic medals.

The 2008 Olympics will be held in Beijing, China. Did you know that?