Answer: prelims
AnswerCrossword Clue
PRELIMSTourney starters
prelimsA preliminary round in an athletic competition
prelimsThe pages preceding the main text of a book, including the title, contents, and preface
prelimsAn event that precedes or prepares for another, in particular
prelimsA preliminary examination, esp. at a college
prelimsPRELIM, a minor match preceding the main event
PRELIMSOlympics events rarely shown in prime time
PRELIMSHeats
PRELIMSHeats with less buzz, perhaps
PRELIMSQualifying rnds.
PRELIMSEarly rounds
PRELIMSEarly matches, briefly
PRELIMSStarts of tourneys
PRELIMSBouts before the finals, for short
PRELIMSCertain boxing contests: Slang.
PRELIMSTourney rounds
PRELIMSThey're before the main event
PRELIMSMinor matches
PRELIMSQualifying bouts
PRELIMSFights before the main event, for short
PRELIMSQualifying bouts, for short
PRELIMSGrad school hurdle