Characteristics for podium success: Insights from speed/power-based track and field experts

Success at Benchmark Events (BMEs) is vital for National Sporting Organisations (NSOs), yet identifying track and field athletes with podium potential remains challenging. It is unclear which athlete characteristics are directly associated with success. This study explores the experiences and opinions of experts with first-hand experience working with athletes at the highest levels, aiming to identify key predictors of success in speed/power-based track and field athletes. Twenty-nine experts with experience at an Olympic or World Championship level participated in open-ended, semi-structured interviews. Content analysis with a quantitative focus was used to analyse the transcripts. A total of 81 characteristics (35 biological, 31 psychological and 15 social) were identified across speed/power-based track and field events. Experts worked across various event groups: 14 with short sprints, 10 with long sprints, seven with horizontal jumps and four with vertical jumps. Peak velocity, strength, composure, resilience, routine, and training consistency emerged as common traits essential for BME podium success across all events. Nine experts highlighted the importance of a holistic approach, stating no single characteristic could predict success on its own. These findings emphasise the need for a multifaceted approach to identifying potential for podium success in speed/power-based track and field athletes.