Let me start out by saying that Götzis is the best track meet in the world and that the people of Götzis and the organizing committee are to be congratulated. Everything you hear about Götzis is true!
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.
Rafer Johnson, a multi-sport high school star who rose from poverty and discrimination, became one of the greatest decathletes in history, ultimately winning Olympic gold in 1960 after a dramatic final event against C.K. Yang.
Kurt Bendlin, a gifted German decathlete, overcame multiple injuries and personal tragedy to set a world record in 1967, and despite repeated setbacks, made several comebacks throughout his career.
This story captures Jürgen Hingsen’s incredible achievements and records while highlighting the recurring theme of being overshadowed by Daley Thompson
Dan O’Brien’s journey - from dramatic setbacks like missing the 1992 Olympics to dominating world championships and securing Olympic gold - cements his legacy as one of the greatest decathletes ever.
Kristjan Rahnu is a Estonian decathlete whose career peak came in 2005, when he scored a personal best of 8526 points and placed 6th at the World Championships in Helsinki. Despite his world ‐class potential, his progress was hindered by
Coached by Gennadiy Morozov, Aleksei Drozdov benefited from moving to Bryansk to train, transitioning from local sprinter interest to elite multi-event athlete following encouragement from family and early exposure to combined events training.
National decathlon records highlight the best performances ever achieved by athletes from each country, showcasing the global depth and diversity of this demanding discipline.