The sight of Olympians and medal winning athletes biting their gold medals has become an iconic image in sports photography.
This curious tradition, while seemingly whimsical, has deep historical roots and modern-day significance. Let's explore why athletes engage in this practice and what it symbolizes.
Historical Origins: Testing for Authenticity
The tradition of biting gold dates back to the 1800s during the California Gold Rush. Back then, gold traders and prospectors lacked advanced technology to verify the authenticity of gold. Gold is a soft metal, and biting it would leave an indentation if it was real.
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If the gold was fake, it would not yield to the bite, potentially even hurting the prospector's teeth. This method was a practical way to test the purity of gold coins and nuggets.
Olympic Medals: Then and Now
In the early 20th century, Olympic gold medals were nearly pure gold. From 1904 to 1912, athletes received medals made almost entirely of gold. Biting the medal to test its authenticity might have made sense during this period. However, since 1912, Olympic gold medals have been primarily made of silver with a thin layer of gold. Modern gold medals contain at least six grams of gold, but the bulk is silver and some copper.
The Photographers' Influence
The modern practice of athletes biting their medals is largely driven by photographers. David Wallechinsky, president of the International Society of Olympic Historians, explained that photographers request this pose because it makes for a memorable and marketable image. The image of an athlete biting their medal is seen as iconic and often makes the front pages of newspapers and magazines.
Symbolism and Tradition
While the practical reason for biting gold no longer applies, the act has taken on symbolic meaning. Psychologist Frank Farley suggests that biting the medal can create an emotional connection with the athlete's achievement. It personalizes the medal, making it uniquely theirs. This tradition has been passed down through generations of athletes, becoming a part of the winning culture in sports.
Not Just for Gold
Interestingly, the tradition isn't limited to gold medals. Athletes who win silver and bronze medals also engage in this practice. The act of biting the medal has become a universal symbol of victory and celebration, regardless of the medal's composition.
A Word of Caution
While the tradition is generally harmless, there have been instances where athletes have damaged their teeth. German luger David Moeller, who won a silver medal at the 2010 Winter Olympics, broke a tooth while biting his medal for photographers. Despite such incidents, the practice continues to be a popular way for athletes to celebrate their success.
The tradition of athletes biting their gold medals is a blend of historical practice, modern media influence, and symbolic celebration. While it began as a practical test for authenticity, it has evolved into an iconic gesture that captures the joy and triumph of winning. As long as photographers continue to seek that perfect shot, and athletes enjoy the tradition, we can expect to see many more medal bites in future competitions.
