No nudes is good news for shot putters

0 Comments | AFP, August, 2004

ATHENS (AFP) — Athletic competition returns to Ancient Olympia on Wednesday for the first time in 1619 years, when the shot put opens the athletics programme.

Inevitably, there are a few differences, not least that fact that the big men of the sport will go into the circle hiding their modesty.

"I'm thankful I live in an era when I have got to compete with clothes," joked American thrower John Godina, the bronze medalist four years ago and silver medalist in 1996.

Godina was speaking by telephone from Olympia and reflecting on the fact that, at many of the ancient Olympic celebrations, the participants were naked.

"I am sure the fans are grateful as well (that they will not be naked). There are not a lot of shot put fetishists around," added the...