Describe a memorable sports event or athletic competition you witnessed or participated in
Describe a memorable sports event or athletic competition you witnessed or participated in.
You should say:
- what the event or competition was
- where and when it took place
- what made it memorable
And explain why this event or competition had an impact on you.
Practise this cue card with a timer Use it in a full mock
One-minute preparation plan
If you took part yourself, you can describe your own preparation and feelings, which gives you more to say.
| Cue card point | What to note (keywords only) |
|---|---|
| What the event or competition was | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| Where and when it took place | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| What made it memorable | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| And explain why this event or competition had an impact on you. | Your main reason plus how it affected you—save 30 seconds for this |
Sample answer
The event I'd like to talk about is a half-marathon I took part in about two years ago, which was the first long-distance race I'd ever entered.
It was held in my home city on a Sunday morning in October. The route went along the river, through the old town and finished in the main square, and there were about eight thousand runners, from serious athletes to people in fancy dress.
What made it memorable was a combination of things. I'd trained for four months, but at around the fifteen-kilometre mark I got a painful cramp and seriously considered stopping. Just then, a complete stranger running beside me slowed down, told me to walk for a minute and then jog with her, and she stayed with me for the last few kilometres. The crowds were also amazing; people lined the streets cheering and handing out water.
It had a real impact on me because it showed me that I'm capable of much more than I'd assumed. I've since run two more races, and I often think of that stranger as an example of sportsmanship.
About 184 words, roughly two minutes at a natural pace. This is an original example written for SpeakingIELTS to show structure and vocabulary—use it for ideas, not as a script to memorise. Real test cards are worded differently, and examiners notice rehearsed answers.
Useful words and phrases
- took part in
- at around the fifteen-kilometre mark
- seriously considered stopping
- lined the streets
- capable of much more than I'd assumed
- sportsmanship
Try using three of these in your own answer. For more topic vocabulary, see the vocabulary helper.
Part 3 follow-up questions
After this cue card, the examiner moves to a Part 3 discussion on the same theme. Give an opinion, a reason and an example for each.
- What are the benefits of participating in sports or athletic activities?
- How can sports promote teamwork and cooperation?
- Do you think professional athletes are role models for young people?
- What challenges do athletes face in their careers?
- How can sports contribute to national pride and unity?
- What is the significance of hosting major sports events for a country?
Practise these Part 3 questions
Check your own answer
Record yourself, then listen once and ask: did I cover every point, keep talking for close to two minutes, link ideas clearly, and explain my reasons at the end? The self-evaluation checklist covers all four speaking criteria.