Kevin Mayer Chasing Ashton Eaton's Decathlon World Record

By Adam Kopet

Kevin Mayer has his eyes set on Ashton Eaton's decathlon world record, according to European Athletics.

Mayer has become the heir apparent since Eaton's retirement from track and field last year. After finishing second to Eaton in the decathlon at the 2016 Olympics in Rio, Mayer won the decathlon at the 2017 IAAF World Outdoor Championships in London.

Now, Mayer finds himself chasing Eaton's world record. He still has plenty of work to do though. Currently, Mayer has added training focus to improve his long jump, pole vault and 1,500 meters, three events Eaton generally excelled in.

During the offseason, Mayer has spent time training in Doha, Miami and his home in Montpellier, France.

His offseason work has already started to pay off in the hurdles. He set a personal best in the 60-meter hurdles last week, running 7.83.

It will take every point Mayer can muster to break Eaton's record of 9,045 points. Mayer stands at #6 on the all-time list with 8,834 points. The 25-year old might be able to find the 212 points needed to break the record, but it will not be easy.