modern pentathlon

American  

noun

1. an athletic contest comprising five different events, a 300-meter freestyle swim, a 4,000-meter cross-country run, a 5,000-meter equestrian steeplechase, épée fencing, and pistol target-shooting at 25 meters, the winner being the contestant with the highest total score.

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modern pentathlon British  

noun

1. an athletic contest consisting of five different events: horse riding with jumps, fencing with electric épée, freestyle swimming, pistol shooting, and cross-country running

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Etymology

Origin of modern pentathlon

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

modern pentathlon

For instance, the Valley Zone Pavilion is “a backyard-inspired oasis” near venues for 3x3 basketball, modern pentathlon, skateboarding, cycling BMX racing and cycling BMX freestyle.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 20, 2026

"That's how they're drawing very capable athletes in, and you pair that with phenomenal coaching and great funding," said Yarnold, a former heptathlete who wanted to take up modern pentathlon.

From BBC ● Feb. 14, 2026

Same with modern pentathlon, where Jessica Savner of the U.S. muses about finding “better ways to market and show our sport.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 9, 2024

South Korea won two gold medals in modern pentathlon, two more in taekwondo, and one in fencing.

From Washington Times ● Sep. 24, 2023

Nine sports will offer qualification spots for the Olympics — archery, artistic swimming, boxing, breaking, hockey, modern pentathlon, sailing, tennis, and water polo.

From Seattle Times ● Sep. 21, 2023