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

"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

The final of the modern pentathlon starts with the showjumping at 10:00 BST on Sunday.

From BBC • Aug. 11, 2024

Last year, Olympic officials met to decide the fate of modern pentathlon, a sport that for more than a century has combined running, swimming, fencing, shooting and equestrian show jumping.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 9, 2024

As the Paris Games approach, the palace — which will host equestrian and modern pentathlon events during the July 26 – Aug. 11 — is starting to buzz with excitement.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 29, 2024

The International Olympic Committee last month approved cricket, baseball/softball, flag football, lacrosse and squash for 2028 and kept boxing, modern pentathlon and weightlifting - three sports whose status had been in doubt.

From Washington Times • Nov. 13, 2023