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.
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.
Almost 40 years ago in Los Angeles (during XXIII Olympiade) only five points appeared to be the difference between Gold and Silver medalists at women’s Heptathlon…..
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 discipline and training applied by decathletes have always been regarded by me as the ultimate in athletic dedication. Whilst it is of course always a huge honour for any decathlete to achieve the ultimate status of World Champion, I cannot help but regard all those who dedicate themselves to this most gruelling of athletic disciplines as Champions - unknown person