Channel 4 (UK) Documentaries - 2002x09 - When Freddie Mercury met Kenny Everett- Followmy.tv

It was the sport of Emperors and it was the only sport that really mattered, its dangerous blood and guts appeal far outshining gladiatorial contests. Chariot racing was exported all over the Empire and summed up what it meant to be Roman. Modern perceptions of chariot racing are mostly inspired by films like Ben Hur - spectacular but wildly inaccurate. Now for the first time in 1000 years a race is recreated just as it would have been as four hopefuls, two Britons and two Americans, volunteer to become charioteers under the watchful eye of expert trainer Tony Smart. The documentary follows our charioteers right through their training to the big day itself, providing a glimpse into the lives of ancient charioteers. It also examines the universal popularity and factionalism of the sport and how Roman politicians sponsored it as a means of furthering their careers. Using historically accurate reconstructions of chariots in a specially built racing 'circus' in Spain, the four contestants pit themselves against ancient technology and each other to see who will have the physical strength and courage to emerge as the winner.