Gaius Appuleius Diocles is described in the public record as Roman charioteer.
Gaius Appuleius Diocles (104 – after 146 AD) was a Roman charioteer. His existence and career are attested by two highly detailed contemporary inscriptions, used by modern historians to help reconstruct the likely conduct and techniques of chariot racing. He has been described in some modern sources as the highest-paid athlete of all time. == Early life and career in Rome == Gaius Appuleius Diocles was born in 104 AD in the Roman province of Lusitania, in the Western Iberian Peninsula. He made his racing debut in Rome at the age of 18, in 122 AD with the racing stable known as the Whites, but did not win a race until two years later. Diocles usually raced four-horse chariots (quadrigae), probably at Rome's Circus Maximus. According to David Matz, the "great majority" of his wins were in the singles races, which may have been the most popular race-types both for drivers and spectators.
Gaius Appuleius Diocles is recorded among the figures by whom ancient athletics is remembered, and the surviving account of that career is the basis on which the reputation rests.
The ancient Olympic festival ran for close to twelve centuries, and a victory was recorded by the athlete's name, his father's name and his city, which is the reason any of these competitors are known at all.
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