Distribution of prizes 1896
...........
As soon as the King had taken his seat Mr
Robertson, from Oxford University advanced towards him, and read an ode
which he had composed for the occasion to celebrate the glory of the Olympic
Games. In this ode written in Ancient Greek in Pindarian meter, the poet
gave vent to the most noble sentiments, which only an ardent love and knowledge
of Ancient Greece could have inspired him. The King lent a most attentive
ear to the recital of those beautiful verses, and the audience cheered
heartily when the poet had finished speaking. After having warmly congratulated
Mr Robertson the King stepped on a sort of platform, erected before the
Royal seats, and richly decorated with carpets and flags. On a small table
were placed the olivebranches, to remind one of the ancient Altis, some
laurel branches and the different diplomas, written on blue or white paper
and folded up in long rolls. The medals, struck in silver for the
first, and in bronze for the second prizes, were real masterpieces of workmanship;
the model being engraved by the celebrated artist Chaplain.
After each call the winner mounted the stand
and bowing before the King, who had a few kind words to say to everyone,
received the diploma, the
prizemedal and the olive branch. The King
shook hands with each winner, who after a respectful bow retired to make
room for the next champion. Each competitor received of course an
ovation from the assembled crowd.
(Source document: Official
Report 1896, page 111) |
First place winner medal
in blue velvet-lined presentation case
|
;){kind=small}
