Ash Moloney | Decathlon Medallist Returns

It’s the most gruelling undertaking on the Olympic program – the Decathlon.

Two days of competition, 10 track and field events , hard on the body and limited margin for error.

At Tokyo 2020, Ash Moloney did what few could. He executed a performance that saw him become the first Australian male to stand on the podium, holding on for the bronze medal with the support his teammate Cedric Dubler in the 1500m.

The highest of highs, however, has not been followed by an ever-increasing peak as the 24-year-old faced injury setbacks and a change of coach before securing his selection to Paris 2024.

“It’s not easy to execute every event at the same time to a high standard, then back it up and do it all over again. It’s been a real challenge for me since winning the medal in Tokyo,” Ash said.

“I was 21 in Tokyo. I came in looking to compete well and did not expect to go away with a medal. To have that in the back of my mind, and to improve, has been a tough road.”

Ash has managed patella tendonitis for much of his career and his medal success highlighted his ability to perform, despite often acute pain.

Changes were needed to progress further, and with that came a change in coach and a committed focus to reduce general soreness incurred through the long, pole and high jumps in particular.

“The load of the decathlon is obviously significant, and most athletes carry something with them. It’s the nature of the beast, 10 events, loads and loads of training, and it’s hard to stay healthy all the time,” Ash said.

“The goal since Tokyo has been managing that in a smarter way.

“I have a new coach in Steve Rippon, and we’ve been experimenting with things that can reduce general soreness, and the best way to execute my jumping in a healthier way.”

Looking ahead to his start at Paris 2024, Ash knows the road to compete has not been an easy one.

He’s turned a corner with his injury management, managed to deliver two 8000-plus point performances and starts in a condition he’s comfortable with.

“The good news is that I’m getting better at managing things. I’ve got strategies to ensure I keep my body together as best I can,” Ash explained.

“A top-eight performance here in Pairs would be a great result. The field is significantly more competitive this time around. Multiple guys are pushing 8600 points, and plenty of juniors exploding onto the scene a bit like I did three years ago.

“Anything above that is a bonus, we’ll just have to wait and see.”

Ash will be joined on the start line for Australia by Daniel Golubovic, the silver medallist from the Birmingham Commonwealth Games. Cedric’s attempt to qualify was derailed by injury.

The Decathlon at Paris 2024 will be held at Stade de France on Friday 2 and Saturday 3 August 2024. The gruelling event to decide the best all-round athlete in the world features, in event order: 100m, Long Jump, Shot Put, High Jump, 400m, 110m Hurdles, Discus Throw, Pole Vault, Javelin Throw and 1500m.

By Cody Lynch, Athletics Australia and Australian Olympic Committee
Posted 30/07/2024