Written by Trackandmemes, May 31, 2021
The icosathlon is a discipline of athletics that consists of 20 events for men. For women, it will be called tetradecathlon since the event will include 14 events. The program will include sprinting, distances ranging from 100m to 3,000m Steeple, hurdles, all throws, pole vaulting, long jumping and high jumping ... A single rule well defined; each event must be spaced half an hour minimum, and 1 hour break minimum in the middle of the day. Combined events are held over two days, sometimes even one day.
Icosathlon for 20 disciplines for men, tetradecathlon for 14 disciplines for women. Aymeric Daubié, how did you come to think that creating a discipline that went beyond the 10 disciplines of the decathlon would be an experience not to be missed?
The event has existed since 1981. It was invented by some crazy Finns. But when we discovered it, we thought it was great! Combined events but harder! A real challenge, and we had to develop it in France.
So it's a whole new discipline. Do you have coaches specialized in this branch of athletics? Do you have coaches who can train you to minimize potential injury during the championship?
There is no coach specialized in this discipline, despite the fact that it has existed for a long time. It's a challenge. Of course, there are also big performances, but most of the participants go there to surpass themselves and finish the event. Many train alone, and there are fewer injuries than you might think in this type of event.
You were world champion in Finland in 2019. How did your preparation go?
I had just finished preparing for the 400m hurdles. But in my past, I have done a bit of everything in athletics, including combined events. I had to work on middle-distance running because it was my weak point. But that year was my first participation, and I was not yet prepared. It was a trial run. I was able to take advantage of the fact that I was still in the U23 category to become world champion thanks to my sprinting and hurdling qualities, and by limiting the damage on the rest.
And the championship? Surprised by the feeling? Or did everything go exactly as you expected?
Very surprised at the feeling! I was expecting it to be hard, but not as hard. Indeed, the middle-distance events draw a lot of energy from me, and the "dynamic" events put a lot of strain on my muscles. On the other hand, I discovered a magical atmosphere and a great state of mind. Everyone encourages each other, gives each other advice and that is beautiful.
The next championship will take place on August 21-22 in Epinal. Any particular objectives for this edition?
As an organizer, our goal is to have as many participants as possible in these events, and for everything to go smoothly. We want the athletes and spectators to have unforgettable memories. As an athlete, I will first of all enjoy myself by trying to beat my records, and to beat some national records.
It makes me want to participate. At least for the fun of it. But for now, I specialize in the 400m. I hope to be there one day, at this great championship, and to live this experience. What do you recommend?
First of all, I advise you to do it at least once in your life, even for fun. It is an incredible experience! Videoing this moment can be a great idea to show people from the inside what the competition is all about, the feeling and the atmosphere. However, make sure you have a buddy to help you, because the icosathlon is not easy. It's a fast-paced event.
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