Civil War Olympics takes Bryan County children back in time
Richmond Hill, Ga. (WTGS) -- The Olympics are underway in Rio de Janeiro, but at Fort McAllister State Park, several children got to play in their own Olympic Games.
Georgia Department of Natural Resources Ranger Trevor Johnston organized the Civil War Olympics Saturday to showcase how the games evolved over centuries.
"Our modern day Olympics dates back to the Civil War era," Johnston said.
The kids, who became "Olympians in training" for the day, not only had fun but said they learned a lot about how some sports had evolved over time.
Baseball was one example shown. In the Civil War days players would not be allowed to move their feet before hitting the ball, according to organizers.
"Instead of doing like the Babe Ruth and having your foot go up, you would have to stay still. I've never seen anything like that, ever," said Skylar McGee, an 11 year old sports fanatic, who can't wait to watch the Olympic games.
Kids also tried to throw a heavy cannonball, just like in the sport "shot put". Johnston said it wouldn't be uncommon to see athletes practicing shot put with a cannonball.
"[A cannonball] is really close to what the actual Olympians are using," Johnston said.
Everyone who won an event at the Civil War Olympics received a gold medal. Other events included wheelbarrow racing, rifle relays, tug-of-war, and horseshoes.
The Olympic Games in Rio last until August 21st.
Fort McAllister Park officials hope the public will come next month for a Labor Day celebration at the Fort.
