The heptathlon is a track and field combined events contest consisting of seven different events. One notable Black athlete in the heptathlon is Jackie Joyner-Kersee. Joyner-Kersee is regarded as one of the greatest female athletes of all time and dominated the heptathlon event in the 1980s and 1990s.

Joyner-Kersee won Olympic gold medals in the heptathlon in 1988 and 1992, and set a world record in the event that still stands today. She also excelled in individual events such as the long jump, where she also won Olympic gold medals.

Joyner-Kersee's achievements in the heptathlon and her impact on the sport have inspired many Black athletes to pursue track and field and excel in multi-event competitions like the heptathlon. She remains a trailblazer and role model for athletes of all backgrounds.