The statue of ZZeus , mighty King of the Greeks. The first Olympic Games were athletic contests to honor Zeus, starting in 776 BC . The Colossal statue stood for over 800 years. It was made from gold, ivory and precious stones and its size and beauty dazzled all who saw it. Sports included running, chariot races, wrestling and boxing, gymnasiums and horse races. Games were held every f0ur years and only Greeks could take part. It stood 40 feet tall and was destroyed by fire and earthquake.