The olive branch

The first Olympics were held in 776 BC. The first Olympic torch was a burning olive branch. Olympic winners were awarded a crown woven from olive branches to symbolise peace and a truce of any hostility. It is still seen today as a symbol of peace and friendship.

Wayne Marriott is based in New Zealand as a conflict management practitioner. He is a member of the International Ombudsman Association and serves on its board as the 2027 President-elect.

In a previous life, he competed at the Race-Walking World Cup (1991 San Jose, California) as a member of the New Zealand team in the 50 km event.