Athletics
CLUSTER | Prince Faisal bin Fahad Sports City |
LOCATION | Malaz - Track and Field |
DATES | 17 - 20 November |
ATHLETES | 304 |
MEDAL EVENTS | 43 |

The Heart of Track and Field Sports
Athletics, often referred to as track and field, is a diverse and dynamic sport category that encapsulates a wide range of events structured around running, jumping, and throwing. Celebrated for its emphasis on human potential, athletics has been a cornerstone of competitive sports throughout history, dating back to ancient times, notably the Olympic Games in Ancient Greece. As one of the most accessible sports globally, athletics offers opportunities for athletes of all ages and abilities to engage in physical activity and competition. It forms the backbone of the modern Olympic Games, drawing immense global attention and participation.
Rules
Athletics, often referred to as track and field, has been included in the Olympic Games since 1896, motivating athletes globally. This sport reflects the Olympic motto: ‘Faster, Higher, Stronger’. Participants must strive to outrun, out-throw, out-jump, and leap farther than their competitors. Athletics is a varied and demanding sport that encourages both friendly competition and teamwork. It highlights human exceptionalism and cultivates values such as discipline and perseverance.
Fast Facts
Games debut: | 2005 |
Past Appearances: | 5 |
Leading medal winners: | Republic of Turkey, Kingdom of Morocco, Islamic Republic of Iran |
Last out: | 2009 |
FUN Facts
The men's 100 meters sprint, widely regarded as one of the most thrilling athletics events, showcases athletes' astonishing speed, often beyond easy comprehension. A remarkable example is Usain Bolt's world record set in 2009, where he completed the race in a mere 9.58 seconds. During this extraordinary performance, Bolt reached an impressive top speed of approximately 27.8 miles per hour (44.64 kilometers per hour). To put this in perspective, his running speed surpassed the typical speed limit in many urban areas, exemplifying human potential at its peak in the realm of track and field sports.