"The important thing in these Olympics is not so much winning as taking part.
The essential thing in Life is not conquering but fighting well."

The above statement, known as the Olympic Creed was a favorite of Pierre de Coubertin, the father of the Modern Olympic Games. His attachment to it is verified by the fact that it is prominently displayed at each of the Olympic Games. Actually, de Coubbertin appropriated the Creed as well as the Olympic Motto, Citius - Altius - Fortius, (Latin for "Faster, Higher, Stronger") from two separate religious clergy. While these holy men have probably forgiven de Coubertin for pilering their words, this is only half the story. For it seems the good Bishop of Pennsylvania from whom de Coubertin stole the Olympic Creed actually did some pilfering of his own. Perhaps it is best that we posthumously give credit to the Dean of American Sports Writers for inspiring the bishop's words. Please go to Creed on the Olympic Symbols page to get the full story.