The first documented pentathlon occurred in 708 BC in Ancient Greece at the Ancient Olympic Games, and was also held at the other Panhellenic Games. The name derives from Greek words for "five competitions".

What year was the pentathlon introduced in the ancient Olympics?

Ancient Olympics. The pentathlon was introduced at Olympia in 708 BC, in the same year as wrestling. It combined the following events: discus-throwing, the long jump, javelin-throwing, running (probably the stadion) and wrestling.

How long has the pentathlon been in the Olympics?

Modern pentathlon was first held at the Stockholm 1912 Games, with a women's competition introduced at Sydney 2000. Originally the elements were spread over four or five days, but since Atlanta 1996 all five disciplines have taken place in a single day.