The pentathlon, whether modern or ancient, has always been designed as a soldiers’ event.It was introduced to the ancient Olympics in the eighth century BC after the Spartans complained that too many Olympic events favoured civilians and did nothing to reward the skills of the warrior.In those days the sport was an elimination event featuring five disciplines: discus, spear throwing, long jump, running and wrestling.The idea was that weaker competitors were progressively eliminated until just two remained to wrestle for the title.Baron Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the Modern Olympics, obviously liked the idea and was keen to incorporate a similar event in the Games.

Website: http://www.abc.net.au/news/olympics/sports/pentathlon.htm