Track and field events in the Olympics Athletics is one of five sports that have appeared in every summer Olympic Games since 1896. (the others are: Cycling, Fencing, Gymnastics, and Swimming). The first track and field event at the Summer Olympics was a sprint race, which made its debut in 1908. Long jump, high jump, pole vault, rounders (now called baseball), shot put, and weight throwing (now called darts) were all introduced in 1932. The marathon was originally not planned to be included in the program but an international competition had been held in Athens three years earlier and it was deemed important by the IOC that there be an open road race for men to compete in. Thus, the marathon was added to the program in 1936. In total, there are 20 track and field events in the Olympics. Men can enter up to four athletes in each individual event, while women can enter up to three. Teams of three will compete in both the men's and women's races over two days. In some events such as the 100 meters or 400 meters, only one competitor per team is allowed to participate. In other events, such as the long jump or triple jump, any number of participants from one to eight (or nine) may take part. A special award, known as "laureate", is given to the athlete who places first in the annual World Championships in Athletics.