googleWhy Do They Bite the Gold Medal?
Have you ever wondered why athletes, particularly those who win gold medals, often bite into their prized possessions? This peculiar tradition has been a part of the Olympics and other major sporting events for decades. Let’s delve into the reasons behind this unique ritual.
History of the Tradition
The practice of biting a gold medal dates back to the early 20th century. According to legend, it was inspired by a British athlete named Alvin Kraenzlein, who won three gold medals at the 1904 St. Louis Olympics. After winning his first medal, he bit into it to test its authenticity, as the quality of medals at the time was often questionable.
Testing Authenticity
One of the primary reasons athletes bite their gold medals is to test their authenticity. Gold is a soft metal, and biting into it can help determine if the medal is made of pure gold or if it contains other metals. This is particularly important for athletes who have spent years training and competing for their chance to win a gold medal.
| Year | Gold Medal Weight | Gold Purity |
|---|---|---|
| 1904 | 5.06 ounces | 10 karats |
| 1912 | 5.06 ounces | 10 karats |
| 1924 | 5.06 ounces | 10 karats |
| 1932 | 5.06 ounces | 10 karats |
| 1948 | 5.06 ounces | 10 karats |
| 1952 | 5.06 ounces | 10 karats |
| 1960 | 5.06 ounces | 10 karats |
| 1968 | 5.06 ounces | 10 karats |
| 1972 | 5.06 ounces | 10 karats |
| 1976 | 5.06 ounces | 10 karats |
| 1980 | 5.06 ounces | 10 karats |
| 1984 | 5.06 ounces | 10 karats |
| 1988 | 5.06 ounces | 10 karats |
| 1992 | 5.06 ounces | 10 karats |
| 1996 | 5.06 ounces | 10 karats |
| 2000 | 5.06 ounces | 10 karats |
| 2004 | 5.06 ounces | 10 karats |
| 2008 | 5.06 ounces | 10 karats |
| 2012 | 5.06 ounces |
