Olympics

[Caran]

Do the athletes get any payment for taking part?

[Quizproquo]

No. Some are corporate sponsored and some have fundraised, but lots of Olympians have day jobs

[Mamyalynne]

Some Countries give their Athletes Medal bonuses, GB doesn't.

[irishmaid]

Do you know I always thought the Olympics were just for amateur athletes? It surprised me it did when Andy Murray turned up in Tennis. My da says he remembers in the 1970's when the top show jumpers in Ireland and England were not allowed to compete in the Games because they were professional. Thinks must have changed I reckon.

[Mamyalynne]

Oh yes, it's changed hugely over the years.

//The International Olympic Committee eliminated the necessity of amateurism in 1971, allowing athletes to receive compensation for time away from work during training and competition. In addition, athletes were permitted to receive sponsorship from national organizations, sports organizations, and private businesses for the first time. In 1986, professional athletes were given permission by the International Federation to compete in each sport of the Olympic Games. For instance, in the 1992 Olympic Games, the United States was allowed to field a basketball team comprised of well-paid NBA stars, called "The Dream Team."//

Source

http://www.infoplease.com/spot/olympic-athletes.html

Many more in depth resources on the whole timeline out there.