By: Nathan Chen

The Olympic Games represent the highest level of human athletic achievement. There is one sport that has viewers’ attention more than any other: track and field.

Track and field is the most popular Olympic sport. Running, jumping, and throwing are human activities and athletic events. Compared with some sports that need special equipment or early training, track and field is accessible to almost anybody. This builds a strong connection between athletes and viewers.

There is a lot of diversity when it comes to track and field. From the explosion of a sprint to the enduring qualities needed in the marathon, there is something for every sport. Other events include the high jump, long jump, and javelin throw, which all add to this diversity. Every event brings different skills with it and, therefore, its thrills and record-breaking performances always keep the viewer on edge.

It has given the world many of the greatest Olympic moments. Jesse Owens four gold medals in 1936, Carl Lewis’s dominance in the 1980s, and Usain Bolt’s performances are all great cultural markers in their own right.

Track and field athletics is awesome. Running 100 meters in less than 10 seconds, over a bar more than two meters high, or running a marathon showcases the ability of humans. In addition, there are personal stories of triumph and struggle that create a layer of human drama that resonates deeply with the viewer.

In sum, no other sport embodies the Olympic spirit quite the way track and field does, making it most worthy of viewers’ attention.