Failing in just one event can end a decathlete's entire competition, with no points scored and no chance of recovery - no matter how well they've performed elsewhere.
Dan O'Brien had famously missed the 1992 Olympics due to a failed pole vault in the U.S. trials, but redeemed himself in Atlanta by taking the gold. His Olympic victory was seen as the final crowning achievement in a legendary career.
A complete history of Talence Decastar showcases all-time decathlon records and champions, celebrating the event’s greatest performances and winners through the years.
The Decathlon's nice in that you get to know the other athletes. It's almost like everyone helps each other out. We're all out there trying to win, but at the same time there's a friendship there too. It's always fun going to meets and catching up with the other guys - Tom Pappas