Cotswold Olimpick Games
The Cotswold Olimpick Games began in 1612 and ran until 1852. They were started by a local lawyer, Robert Dover, with the approval of King James I. Events included horse-racing, coursing with hounds, running, jumping, dancing, sledgehammer throwing, fighting with swords and cudgels, and wrestling. Games were attended by all classes of society, including royalty on one occasion.
