Ireland is buzzing after Kate O’Connor’s stunning silver medal at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo – the first-ever Irish medal in the heptathlon. Kate’s grit, five personal bests, and a national record have inspired thousands to ask:

What Are the Multi-Events?

Multi-events combine several disciplines to find the best all-round athlete.

For Women: Heptathlon (7 events) & Pentathlon (5 events indoors).

• Heptathlon Explained – https://worldathletics.org/disciplines/combined-events/heptathlon

For Men: Decathlon (10 events) & Heptathlon (7 events indoors).

• Decathlon Explained – https://worldathletics.org/disciplines/combined-events/decathlon

Events test speed, strength, endurance, and skill –  sprints, hurdles, jumps, throws, and middle-distance.

Why Try Multi-Events?

• Variety: Every day looks different – no chance of boredom!
• Skills for Life: Sprinting, jumping, and throwing build coordination and fitness.
• Pathway: Multi-events are a proven route to elite athletics.
• Fun & Team Spirit: Even though it’s individual scoring, multi-eventers share a strong community vibe.

Who Can Take Part?

• Kids (9–12): Start with combined events taster days or school competitions.
• Teens (13–18): Join your local athletics club and enter juvenile pentathlon/heptathlon competitions.
• Adults: It’s never too late! Masters combined events are growing in Ireland.

How to Get Started

1. Contact Your Local Club – Many clubs offer coaching across sprints, jumps, and throws. Club Finder.
2. Ask About Multi-Events Training – Many clubs now run dedicated combined-events groups.
3. Enter a Combined Events Meet – Athletics Ireland hosts annual juvenile, senior, and masters championships.
4. Follow Kate’s Journey – Keep up with Ireland’s trailblazer on Instagram.

Tips from Kate O’Connor’s Playbook

• Embrace Variety: Don’t specialise too early – try everything.
• Set Small Goals: Each personal best is a step forward.
• Stay Resilient: Injuries and setbacks are part of the journey – trust the process and expert advice.
• Enjoy It: Multi-events are as much about the challenge as the result.

Next Steps

• 🏃 Athletes: Contact your local club or Regional Development Officer.
• 📲 Parents & Coaches: Download our Run Jump Throw booklet which is the main coaching resource.
• Check out our Level 1 course that also multi events focused and covers 10 events. Coaching Calendar.

🚀 Be Part of Ireland’s Next Chapter in Athletics

Kate O’Connor’s medal has opened a new era for Irish multi-events. Whether you’re 9 or 90, there’s a place for you in the sport. Take the leap!