What’s the number-one reason all high-school and collegial athletes aspire to play in the pro leagues? It’s all about the money, and it always has been since at least the second century AD. Even athletes back then were paid big bucks.
But the biggest of bucks in the entire history of the sports world weren’t paid out to Tiger Woods or Michael Jordan. Their $800 million and $2.1 billion net worths, respectively, are nothing compared to what charioteer Gaius Appuleius of the Roman Empire earned.
A Rising Talent
Gaius was born in Lamecus, the capital city of Emerita Augusta, in 104 AD. Gaius wasn’t born with a silver spoon in his mouth, but his father’s small transport business did more than just pay the bills. Gaius began his racing career at age 18 and quickly become a rising star in Rome. His reputation was widespread, and it wasn’t long before he was called up to the big leagues. Known professionally as Lamecus Diocles, he was a local hero who had brought recognition to his hometown.