I. Introductory remark
The general term SF is broader than the Greek cultural phenomenon of the ἀγών/agṓn. The Greeks did not invent SF, but undoubtedly brought them to a peak with the institution of the agṓn.
II. Egypt
The Pharaonic culture of the Nile valley, according to Hdt. 2,58-59,1 the birthplace of the festival (panḗgyris), provides clear indications for combining sports and festival i…