Referring to athletes who perform at a very high competitive level but below the elite/professional tier. These athletes often compete nationally or regionally but may not qualify for international competition or professional contracts.
'Sub' is a Latin prefix meaning 'under' or 'below,' combined with 'elite' from French 'élite' meaning chosen or select. The term emerged in the late 20th century as competitive athletics developed more defined performance tiers.
Sub-elite athletes are often the most dedicated competitors - they train like professionals but usually maintain full-time jobs and receive little financial support. Many Olympic champions started as sub-elite athletes, grinding through years of anonymous hard work before breaking through!
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