As part of their study of ancient Greek history and mythology, the Waldorf School's entire fifth grade organized a pentathlon of events and had the opportunity to spend the day with their counterparts from Waldorf's sister-school, the Rudolf Steiner School. For fans who wish for a simpler Olympics - one free from lawsuits, controversy and unpronounceable chemical compounds - we present the annual Waldorf School Olympics! Fifth graders at the Waldorf School of Garden City recently hosted their own version of the Greek Olympics for their friends from the Rudolf Steiner School in Manhattan.

"This reenactment of the ancient Greek Olympics features the javelin, discus, long jump, wrestling, and running events," said Waldorf's physical education teacher, Ms. Bonnie Bloz. "It is a time to honor the natural athlete in every child."

As part of their study of ancient Greek history and mythology, the entire class organizes a pentathlon of events and has the opportunity spend the day with their counterparts from Waldorf's sister-school, the Rudolf Steiner School. The 5 th graders from both schools mix into Greek city states and offer music, poetry and dance in addition to the athletic events. Recognition in these events is given for grace and form as well as for speed or distance.

The 5th graders from both schools mix into Greek city states. Waldorf schools are private institutions based on philosopher Rudolf Steiner's theories on child development. Every spring, fifth graders from Waldorf schools around the world celebrate their own version of the ancient Olympic Games.

Founded in 1947 and located at 225 Cambridge Avenue adjacent to Adelphi University, the Waldorf School of GArden City offers classes from nursery through grade 12 and is accredited by the New York State Association of Independent Schools (NYSAIS) and the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA). for more information, call (516) 742-3434 or visit www.waldorfgarden.org .

The 5th graders from both schools mix into Greek city states. A 5th grade student from the Rudolf Steiner School prepares to throw the javelin.

The 5th graders from both schools mix into Greek city states. The 5th graders from both schools mix into Greek city states. (L-R): Waldorf's buildings and grounds staff member Victor Rivera and physical education teacher Bonnie Bolz smile for the camera. This reenactment of the ancient Greek Olympics features the javelin, discus, long jump, wrestling, and running events. (L-R): Waldorf's buildings and grounds staff member Victor Rivera and sixth grader Isabella Guida carry the Olympic torch onto the Laszlo Jurak Athletic Field. This reenactment of the ancient Greek Olympics features the javelin, discus, long jump, wrestling, and running events. Recognition in these events is given for grace and form as well as for speed, strength and distance. Third graders from the Waldorf School of Garden City cheer for their friends and guests from the sidelines. This reenactment of the ancient Greek Olympics features the javelin, discus, long jump, wrestling, and running events. A 5th grade student from the Rudolf Steiner School takes part in the long jump. Fifth grader Alicia Greco prepares to throw the discus. A 5th grade student from the Rudolf Steiner School takes part in the long jump. Fifth grader Kosta Koufis takes part in the long jump. Fifth grader Charlene Brew takes part in the long jump. A 5th grade student from the Rudolf Steiner School takes part in discus throw. Fifth grader Matthew Kim prepares to throw the discus.