After winning medals at the Olympics, athletes often take a bite out of their prizes in front of the cameras. This quirky tradition has several explanations, though its origins remain somewhat unclear. Here’s why it happens:
Historical Context and Tradition
Testing the Metal: Historically, people have bitten coins to test their authenticity. Real gold is malleable, and a bite could leave a mark. Although modern Olympic medals are not solid gold but rather silver with a thin gold plating, the tradition of biting continues. The idea is partly a holdover from the past, when people would bite coins to ensure they were genuine.
Historical Facts: According to Tony Bijkerk of the International Society of Olympic Historians, the medals were solid gold only in 1912. From then on, they have been primarily silver with a gold coating. The gold layer is often thin, and over time, it can wear off. Fanny Blankers-Koen, an Olympic hero from 1948, even had to have her medals re-gilded twice.
Modern Reasons
Photographers’ Requests: David Wallechinsky, president of the International Society of Olympic Historians, notes that photographers often ask athletes to bite their medals. This gesture makes for a memorable and iconic photo.
Psychological and Emotional Connection: Psychologist Frank Farley suggests that biting the medal is part of the “winning culture.” It symbolizes the athlete’s emotional connection to their accomplishment. By biting their medal, athletes are making it their own, adding a personal and unique touch to their victory.
Cultural and Psychological Significance
Cultural Practice: Medal biting has become a standard practice in the Olympic ceremony, contributing to the celebratory atmosphere. It’s a way for athletes to participate in a shared tradition and display their triumph in a memorable manner.
Personal Mark: Even though medals are not made of pure gold, the act of biting them creates a personal imprint. This can be seen as a way for athletes to leave a mark on their achievements, making their victory more personal and unique.
Notable Incidents
Accidents: In some cases, like that of German luger David Moeller at the 2010 Winter Olympics, athletes have accidentally harmed themselves while biting their medals. Moeller broke his tooth while posing for photos.
Overall, while the tradition of biting medals may seem odd, it carries historical significance and offers athletes a way to connect deeply with their achievements.
