decathlons

A decathlon is a track and field competition in which athletes compete in ten events over two days. Points are awarded for performance in each event using World Athletics scoring tables, and the overall winner is the competitor who accumulates the most points. The events are contested in a fixed order: Day one — 100 metres, long jump, shot put, high jump, and 400 metres; Day two — 110 metres hurdles, discus throw, pole vault, javelin throw, and 1500 metres.

The decathlon is designed to test speed, endurance, strength, and technical skill across multiple disciplines, requiring extensive training and a wide range of athletic abilities. Success depends on both individual event performance and the ability to manage energy and pacing across the two days.

Origin and history: The term decathlon combines Greek roots meaning ten and contest. The modern event took shape in the early 20th century, with the first Olympic decathlon held at the 1912 Stockholm Games, where Jim Thorpe won the title. Since then, the decathlon has been a premier test of the all-around male athlete and a feature of major championships.

Women’s participation in the decathlon is less common at the highest levels; the standard Olympic and world championships program for women typically features the heptathlon, though women's decathlons occur in some competitions and at various levels of sport.

Notable athletes associated with the decathlon include Jim Thorpe, Daley Thompson, Dan O'Brien, Ashton Eaton, Kevin Mayer, and Damian Warner. The event remains a hallmark of versatility and endurance in track and field.