What is DNA?

DNA, Dynamic New Athletics, is a short-programme competition concept designed and developed by European Athletics with the aim of enhancing the appeal of our sport in the 21st century.

Like chocolate complements vanilla or Hip Hop complements opera, DNA offers an exciting alternative to stand alongside and add value to traditional athletics, which will, of course, remain the format for elite international competitions such as the Olympic Games, European Championships and Diamond League.

With an emphasis on innovation – we call it “Athletics with Attitude” – the DNA concept integrates mixed-gender teams, modified rules, presentational possibilities and digital communications elements that can be adapted for every level of the competition pyramid while remaining true to the essence of athletics.

For elite showcase events each two-hour DNA match offers in-stadium spectators and media audiences a fast-paced, coherent and interesting story that comprises:

• Men and women competing together – the flexible competition programme includes different disciplines for men and women, plus mixed relays, which highlights the exemplary gender balance of athletics.
• A focus on team – emphasising the importance of esprit de corps and the role of coaches, the team element of DNA is built on a unique, easily understood scoring system that holds fan interest from the first event though the match-deciding final relay known as ‘The Hunt’.
• High-quality presentation – With a single discipline in progress at any one time and the integration of multiple video screens, lighting and music, the experience is exciting and easy to follow for both new and casual fans.

For club and school competitions, DNA brings new value to athletics through:

• The compact programme – which means that teams require fewer athletes, making it possible for smaller clubs and schools to be competitive and larger clubs and schools to field multiple teams.
• The shorter timetable – which makes it easy to integrate competitions into modern, time-scarce lifestyles.
• The enhanced team element – which helps keeps athletes engaged throughout the season, thereby increasing the sport’s participation rate.
• Smartphone applications – which include competition management, statistics, educational and promotional features.

A New Dimension

Excited by this? Have a look at the rest of the dna.run website, visit the FAQs and check back for updates as we continue to develop athletics for the 21st Century.