Modern Pentathlon is a multi-discipline sport consisting of five events of fencing, show jumping, air pistol shooting, cross country running and swimming.  It is a sport which requires a high level of dedication, patience, physical fitness and time.  Those who enjoy success are regarded as having demonstrated all-round physical strength, stamina and skill.

The Pentathlon was originally the climax of the classical Olympic Games, the five events then being the discus, javelin, running, jumping and wrestling.  Baron Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympic movement, had a vision of reviving this test of the complete athlete.  Based on the skills and endurance of a King’s messenger crossing hostile lands, the five totally different events of Modern Pentathlon came together and the new sport was born for the Stockholm Games of 1912.

The sport has recently evolved to meet demands by the International Olympic Committee in that it has become less complex.  This has made the sport more attractive to Television and a new one-day format has been adopted to increase viewers.

In the United States, many USPC Tetrathlon competitors also compete in the Pentathlon.   Their Pony Club experience playing a significant role in their athletic and horsemanship skills development.