Did the Ancient Olympics Allow Women Competitors?

💡 The Answer

• Married women were banned from attending the ancient Olympic Games.
• Unmarried girls could watch, but female athletes competed in the separate Heraean Games.
• The Heraean Games honored Hera and featured foot races for unmarried women.
• Kyniska of Sparta became the first female Olympic victor through chariot racing in 396 BC.
• Her victory counted because the horse owner won, not the rider.