But the multifaceted reasons for that enthusiasm are not as familiar.
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They trained to hunt, to wage war, and to demonstrate man's reverence for the gods. Sports also served as an important component of a young man's education and as spectator entertainment, Ajootian explained. A few gifted individuals even made lucrative careers by participating in athletic competitions held in various places in the Mediterranean world. Logging extensive excavation experience during his career, Sidebotham has traveled to Italy, Greece, Tunisia, Libya, Israel, Egypt, North Yemen and India. The visiting professor will concentrate on the five events of the ancient Greek pentathlon long jump, discus, wrestling, javelin and foot race and will briefly consider chariot racing and gladiatorial combats as examples of the ancient Greek and Roman interest in sports.