The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Athletics \Ath*let"ics\, n.
   The art of training by athletic exercises; the games and
   sports of athletes.
   [1913 Webster]

WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006):

athletics
    n 1: an active diversion requiring physical exertion and
         competition [syn: sport, athletics]
    2: a contest between athletes [syn: athletic contest,
       athletic competition, athletics]
    3: participation in sports events as an extracurricular activity